Surf as a Driver for Sustainable Coastal Preservation – an Application of the Contingent Valuation Method in Portugal

Abstract

Ecosystem services provided by coastal areas depend on natural conditions and anthropogenic actions. The shape, quality, and safety of the waves in particular depend on factors such as coastal erosion, coastal defense constructions, and urbanization, which in addition to environmental factors may determine the choice of a given area for surfing. We assess surfers’ willingness to pay to protect the environment in specific typologies of beaches (urban and non-urban) in Portugal using the contingent valuation method. Results show that environmental attributes, such as specific wave characteristics, and socio-demographic characteristics are important determinants of willingness to pay. Moreover, surfers’ willingness to pay is significantly lower for urban beaches.