Cost and benefits of ecosystem based adaptation: the case of the Philippines
Ecosystem based Adaptation (EbA) can provide effective nature-based solutions to climate change, as it uses both biodiversity and ecosystems as part of a larger adaptation strategy. It not only delivers climate change adaptation benefits, but also contributes to biodiversity conservation and to enhancing local economies. This study showcases examples of cost benefit analyses in the Philippines. The lessons learned from this appraisal process will make it easier for policy makers to compare EbA options with engineered solutions. The study, which was carried out with the financial support of the French Government, reviewed projects and assessed existing data from two sites in the Philippines. It highlights that undertaking economic costs and benefits of EbA options is important for decision and policy making purposes. The examples show that in many cases nature based solutions provide more economic benefits than engineering solutions in the long run, especially when co-benefits are considered. For example, in one case mangrove protection avoided damages for shoreline protection of USD 206,621, as compared to building a seawall, which avoided damages of USD 180,046 with a 10% discount rate.