Comparing forest ecosystem services in two Italian parks: insights from Stelvio National Park and Orobie Bergamasche Regional Park

Abstract

This study provides a comparative economic evaluation of three forest ecosystem services (ESs) (i.e. timber production, carbon sequestration, and landslide risk protection) in two protected areas of the Lombardy region (Northern Italy): the Stelvio National Park (SNP) and the Orobie Bergamasche Regional Park (OBRP). Differing in altitude and forest structure, they offer an ideal context for assessing how biophysical and management factors influence ES valuation. Timber production was estimated using market prices for standing and roadside timber over the 2011–2023 period. Carbon sequestration was assessed via above- and below-ground biomass increments, then monetized through voluntary market carbon prices. Landslide risk protection was quantified using the replacement cost method, considering forested areas exposed to high landslide risk. Results indicate that OBRP features the highest economic value for timber production (1.46 million €/year), due to higher harvest volumes, and carbon sequestration (3.38 million €/year). In contrast, SNP is characterized by a higher per-area carbon sequestration value (1,174 €/year/km²), owing to forest types present in the park. In fact, larches maximize timber production given their high price but rank fourth in terms of carbon sequestration (after mountain pines, silver fir, and other conifers). Conversely, mountain pines maximize carbon sequestration but have the second-lowest timber price. Landslide protection values are comparable, with SNP slightly prevailing (€388,779 vs. €370,980). These findings highlight the role of forest composition, management strategies, and elevation gradients in shaping ecosystem services.