The importance of community perceptions and capacity building in payment for ecosystems services: A case study at Phu Kao, Thailand

Although payment for ecosystem services (PES) is a globally-recognized mechanism for effective forest protection (e.g., REDD+ for forest carbon), implementation can be challenging, especially on a local level. This study examined community perceptions of and willingness to participate in PES-project development for protection of a watershed forest at Phu Kao (PK) in northeast Thailand. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 404 household representatives from 10 villages in or near PK during 2018 and 2019. Although PES-project development is a new concept at PK, we received positive responses from the villagers. Estimated amounts of willingness to pay (WTP, n = 204) were smaller than willingness to accept (WTA, n = 200). Income constraint was the main factor limiting WTP, followed by perceptions that forest protection was the government's responsibility, and lack of understanding/trust on PES implementation. Meanwhile, benefit reduction, especially food sources and income generated from non-timber forest products, hindered WTA. PES-development, at least in the early stages, requires a proper balance of technical expertise, governmental intervention, and long-term commitment from relevant stakeholders. Project failure is likely without a good understanding of community perceptions and capacity building.

Automated summary

The study found that although PES-project development is a new concept for villagers in Phu Kao, northeast Thailand, they showed positive responses. Villagers' willingness to pay was smaller than willingness to accept, mainly influenced by income constraint, perceptions of government responsibility, and lack of understanding/trust in PES implementation.