Exploring the suitability of causal loop diagrams to assess the Value chains of aquatic ecosystem services: A case study of the Baviaanskloof, South Africa

Abstract

This study explores the suitability of causal loop diagrams (CLDs) to assess the value chains of AESs in South Africa within the context of a case study. AESs do not usually have finite market values nor are they traded in formal markets, thus a traditional approach to value chain analysis was unsuitable. A professional workshop environment was used to facilitate a transdisciplinary approach towards identifying relevant AESs, their complex inputs, interactions and trade-offs. A CLD was developed to map the complex relationships between the AESs and their associated inputs, which formed the basis of the value chain analysis. CLDs have the potential to identify challenges and opportunities for existing markets of AESs and thus facilitate the development of recommendations for improving AES value chains.