Abstract
This project will estimate the benefits to society of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in England and Wales. These benefits will be quantified and monetised, where possible. It will also estimate the added value of SSSI notification to the wider biodiversity value of the sites. The SSSI regime often underpins other protected areas and this project will also consider the added value in their being afforded additional designations (e.g. Ramsar sites, Natura 2000 sites or National Nature Reserves). The project also needs to assess, both quantitatively and qualitatively, the contribution that SSSIs make to the delivery of ecosystem goods and services both on the site and within the context of the wider landscape. This project is expected to complement other studies on assessing environmental benefits and use recognised methodologies. Defra and the Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) will provide information on the relevant studies and will liaise with Natural England, Countryside Council for Wales (CCW) and the Environment Agency in order to provide the contractor with the appropriate contact for providing relevant data.
United Kingdom