A method for the evaluation of bushmeat as a livelihood for rural subsistence communities in Ecuador

摘要

In this paper, a holistic method is proposed to account for the indices of the relative abundance of game species and their relational value to human communities. The method allows for the consideration of economic, ecological, and cultural factors. Based on econometrics, three regression models are specified: 1) the total cost model, which is used to analyse the costs involved in hunting; 2) the private economic value model, which is used to assess hunting as an economic activity in terms of the hunter's private profit; 3) the social value model, which is used to estimate the net benefits accrued by society from the entire process of bushmeat consumption. This method provides not only empirical findings to show how bushmeat consumption contributes to enhance social welfare but also relevant information for public policy makers concerning the sustainable management of game species.