Non-market valuation and Indigenous Peoples’ values: researcher constraints and policy impacts

• Published in: Environmental science & policy Vol. 153; p. 103679
• Main Authors: Manero, Ana, Nikolakis, William, Woods, Kaely, Grafton, R. Quentin
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.03.2024
• Subjects: Choice modeling; Environmental policy; Knowledge translation; Public policy; Role of science; Public policy; Environmental policy; Knowledge translation; Role of science; Choice modeling
• ISSN: 1462-9011; 1873-6416
• DOI: 10.1016/j.envsci.2024.103679

Non-market valuation (NMV) may be used to inform environmental management decisions, including those involving the rights and interests of Indigenous Peoples. We conducted a mixed-methods survey of authors from peer-reviewed NMV studies to gain insights into the policy impact and constraints from their work. We collected 25 survey responses, drawn from a list of 63 peer-reviewed studies, which were included in a recent systematic literature review of NMV within the context of Indigenous Peoples’ values and the environment. Survey results suggest that NMV’s technical limitations are relatively infrequent constraints to policy change. Rather, a lack of research resources to support policy change and poor uptake by policymakers are key roadblocks. Further, we note challenges in the academic merit system that may constrain, to some extent, researchers’ motivations and ability to dedicate their work to policy change. We offer options for future Indigenous Peoples’ NMV studies to catalyze policy impact: 1) understand policy needs and possible knowledge translation pathways; 2) identify and plan for critical barriers; 3) adopt appropriate ethical frameworks and methodological best-practices; 4) ensure sufficient project resources are available for extensive and meaningful engagement and for Indigenous-led research with local communities; and 5) leverage researcher networks to consolidate new evidence and transmit a consistent evidence-based message to policymakers. •Non-market valuation (NMV) may inform policy changes, including those affecting Indigenous Peoples.•NMV researchers highlight lack of resources and disconnect with policymakers as key impact barriers.•Prioritizing strategic engagements over technical aspects may enhance policy impact.•NMV limitations can be addressed through best-practices and appropriate ethical frameworks.•Indigenous research principles should guide assessments of Indigenous Peoples’ values.