Transferring landscape values using discrete choice experiments: Is meta-analysis an option?

Abstract

Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) is an increasingly used valuation method to guide policy-makers in their landscape management decision-making. However, due to time and budget constraints, conducting an original DCE for every single policy decision may not be possible in practice. In this context, meta-analyses are becoming a popular tool for supporting benefit transfer in environmental valuation. This paper raises the question whether meta-analysis is an option for transferring landscape values using DCEs within Europe. We argue that the use of specific and different attributes, definitions and units of measurement makes it hard to compare willingness-to-pay values across current DCE studies.