Case study, scenarios and the exploration of humans' subjectivity for market-based instrument success: An integrated framework

Abstract

Societies are dependent on healthy aquatic ecosystems to supply crucial ecosystem services for human well-being; including quality source water for drinking, economic use and recreational opportunities. Non point source (NPS) contamination of water in southern Alberta's agricultural belt is an issue despite legislation and policy. Market-based instruments are promoted in Alberta as a tool to help meet environmental management goals; however there is little experience with their effective design and implementation. This paper proposes an integrated methodological framework to be layered on the economic principles of MBIs to increase the likelihood of their success. The framework integrates a case study method with a relevant and realistic MBI scenario that is then tested for legitimacy and acceptance of the tool using Q method. It is assumed that human subjectivity plays a significant role in trade-off choices that individuals and groups make generally and in particular with regard to the environment. Subjectivity, context and institutional structures can play a significant role in the adoption/ success or failure of management tools for environmental issues. © 2012 WIT Press.