Valuing mangrove ecosystem services in Dumai, Indonesia, for conservation and policy

Abstract. Insusanty E, Mulyadi A, Efriyeldi, Warningsih T. 2025. Valuing mangrove ecosystem services in Dumai, Indonesia, for conservation and policy. Asian J For 9: 428-439. Mangrove ecosystems deliver diverse services that are vital for ecological stability and human well-being, encompassing provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural functions. Despite their importance, the economic value of these ecosystems is often undervalued, leading to inadequate conservation efforts. This study estimates the Total Economic Value (TEV) of mangrove ecosystem services in Dumai City, Indonesia, by applying a combination of valuation approaches: market price (effect on production), benefit transfer, individual travel cost, and contingent valuation methods. The estimated TEV of mangrove ecosystem services is approximately Rp 110.95 billion annually. Regulating services contribute the largest share (49.25%), primarily from carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and seawater intrusion control. Provisioning services account for 40.19%, mainly from fisheries and firewood, while supporting services (3.15%) and cultural services (7.41%) provide additional ecological and socio-cultural benefits. These results demonstrate that mangroves play a critical role in sustaining livelihoods and maintaining ecological balance in Dumai. Recognizing their substantial economic value can strengthen evidence-based coastal management, promote the implementation of Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES), and support long-term conservation policies that balance ecological integrity with socio-economic development.