Adaptative design and management of a payment for ecosystem services scheme in Copan Ruinas, Honduras

Abstract

This article presents a case study of development of a Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) program related to drinking water in the city of Copán Ruinas, Honduras. The methodology used for the design and the implementation of this program is based on an integrated and adaptive management approach. It includes the following elements: general diagnostic, definition of objectives, analysis of enabling conditions, technical design, implementation and evaluation. This paper presents the empirical results of the application of this methodology and, in particular, highlights the application of a performance-based payment system to remunerate local peasants in accordance to their land use decisions.