Characterization of the ecosystem services provided by the mangrove ecosystem located in swamp of the Virgin, (Colombia), and quantification of its economic value

Abstract

The Swamp of the Virgin, located in Cartagena, Colombia, is an estuarine ecosystem with a mangrove forest that provides numerous ecosystem services to the surrounding communities. However, this valuable ecosystem faces environmental problems that threaten its sustainability. The objective of this research was to characterize the ecosystem services of the Swamp of the Virgin and quantify their economic value. To achieve this objective, a comprehensive study was conducted that included characterizing the sociodemographic profile, level of knowledge, and key actors of the surrounding communities. Subsequently, an environmental education program was implemented, the ecosystem services provided by the mangrove were identified and prioritized, and GIS tools were used to determine changes in mangrove cover over the last three decades. Finally, the economic value of the ecosystem services was quantified. The results revealed that the communities have a high level of familiarity with the Swamp and recognize its importance, although there is a gap between this recognition and the perception of personal impact from its degradation. A wide range of ecosystem services was identified, with fishing and aquaculture being the most valued. The multitemporal analysis showed a dynamic of mangrove loss and recovery. The economic valuation estimated an average total value of $876854054 USD by 2024. These findings underline the critical importance of conservation and sustainable management of this ecosystem, providing valuable information for the formulation of environmental protection policies and strategies