The present study identified and quantified the value of the marine environment to different users and non-users of the coast around Wales. Previous studies have tended to focus on the value of extractive activities only, whereas the present study investigated the implications of integrating a broader range of values and how this impacted the development of comprehensive marine spatial plans for the area.
The study identified data inadequacies relating to non-extractive recreational activities in the area. The economic importance and spatial distribution of the activities (i.e. diving, kayaking, wildlife cruises and bird watching) were investigated using questionnaires. The study revealed that non-extractive recreational users spent between £21.8 and £33 million in 2008 in Wales. The integration of this information with existing fine scale fisheries data in the design of marine reserves was investigated using a site-selection algorithm. The incorporation of spatially explicit economic data for recreation resulted in reserves that were considerably less costly to the recreational sector than reserves designed without the consideration of recreational interests without any extra costs to the fisheries sector.
The perceived distribution of values and benefits derived from the marine environment according to different stakeholder groups and their preferences for the location of marine reserves were assessed and mapped through interviews. The study
suggested the existence of similar spatial distributions for certain benefits of the marine environment and particular areas were identified as providers of multiple benefits. Such data can be used to identify areas better suited for specific uses or
management regulations. The integration of data on stakeholders' priority areas for conservation in a site-selection algorithm suggested that in the case of Wales it is possible to integrate stakeholders' preferences for the location of reserves without compromising conservation needs, potentially avoiding unnecessary conflicts between conservation and stakeholders' interests.
Society's support for marine reserves in Wales was assessed through the use of a choice experiment survey. Findings identified generalised support for reserves with heterogeneous views on the size and management of the reserve. Results suggested that society is willing to pay for the conservation of the marine environment and that this willingness to pay is likely to be greater than the associated economic costs of protection. The integration of valuation techniques, survey methods and systematic conservation tools established herein should further the development of comprehensive marine spatial plans for the area.