Valuation of ecosystem services and cost of ecosystem degradation and restoration in AlUla County

The consultancy assessed the economic and ecological value of ecosystem services provided by the natural ecosystems of AlUla County and analysed the costs associated with ecosystem degradation and restoration. The study sought to improve understanding of the contribution of ecosystems to local livelihoods, environmental sustainability and cultural heritage, while providing evidence to support conservation and restoration policies.

The work included the valuation of ecosystem services using a methodology based on the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MA) framework, combining literature reviews, publicly available data, stakeholder engagement and additional evidence gathering. The analysis considered the contribution of ecosystems to areas such as agricultural productivity, water resources, climate regulation and cultural values, and estimated their economic and social importance.

In addition, the consultancy evaluated the costs associated with ecosystem degradation processes, including land degradation, desertification and unsustainable resource use, and developed high-level estimates of restoration costs. The study also assessed potential restoration measures and identified priorities and recommendations to support ecosystem recovery and sustainable management in AlUla County.