The Economics of Nature-based Solutions for Wastewater Treatment

This report introduces a robust and comprehensive cost-benefit analysis (CBA) methodology for evaluating nature-based solutions for wastewater treatment (NbSwt). The CBA framework is designed to be highly adaptable, catering to diverse contexts including both developed and developing countries. The methodology employs a modular structure, incorporating generic cost and benefit functions that allow users to tailor the analysis to local conditions and water management objectives. The CBA accounts for a wide array of economic factors, from direct costs and returns to externalities such as pollution contaminants. It is grounded in state-of-the-art cost and benefit transfer models and draws from an extensive body of scientific literature. The report also discusses the economic implications of various NbSwt systems, emphasising the role of land opportunity costs and the importance of context-specific assessments. It acknowledges the limitations inherent in existing cost and benefit estimates and suggests avenues for more precise, region-specific evaluations.

Toke Emil Panduro, Tenaw Gedefaw Abate, Anne Mølmer Jensen

toke@envs.au.dk

Policy cycle stage: Design