March 3, 2026Open Access

Brief: Aarhus Living Lab – welfare economic assessment of large-scale nature restoration. Deep dive case.

Key Points

Economic assessment highlights surface water quality improvement from the nature restoration plan.
An estimated total of 11 parks will enhance recreation opportunities and amenity values in the area.
Analysis focused on the Aarhus River Valley park, assessing costs and environmental benefits like carbon sequestration.
Findings support the project's potential to positively impact local ecosystems and community welfare.

Abstract

This brief presents the results of a social cost-benefit analysis of a large scale nature restoration plan in the Municipality of Aarhus in Denmark. A total of 11 Water- & Nature Parks are planned that would more than double nature areas. In this brief, one of the 11 parks, the Aarhus River Valley Water- & Naturepark is assessed economically in terms of: Surface water quality improvement Groundwater protection Improved recreation opportunities Enhanced amenity values Carbon sequestration Implementation and operational costs

Brief: Aarhus Living Lab – welfare economic assessment of large-scale nature restoration. Deep dive case.

Key Points

Abstract

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