Valuation of recreation-related cultural ecosystem services provided by Pirin National Park, Bulgaria

A novel method for valuing recreation-related cultural ecosystem services (RRES) in Pirin National Park, Bulgaria, yields an average annual value of BGN 170 million for the period 2015–2019. This approach, aligned with SEEA-EA and SNA principles, measures RRES flow by comparing visitor demand (tourist consumption products) to ecosystem maintenance supply, providing reliable estimates using minimal public or easily accessible data. The study demonstrates a practical framework for assessing the economic significance of protected areas, offering insights applicable to other National Parks.

Nikolova, M. (2022). Valuation of recreation-related cultural ecosystem services provided by Pirin National Park, Bulgaria. Journal of the Bulgarian Geographical Society, 47, 61–72. https://doi.org/10.3897/jbgs.e97901