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Social and Economic Contribution of the Bioeconomic Sector in Ecuador: A Methodological Approach

Abstract:

he national and international scientific community considers Ecuador’s biodiversity to be a comparative-even competitive-advantage of a new development paradigm, which could pave the way for a future that is less dependent on non-renewable resources. Accordingly, the concept of bioeconomy has raised attention from different sectors, but its understanding and policy development to exploit its potential are still very limited. In the present work, we propose a methodological approach to assess the economic and social contribution of the bioeconomic sector in Ecuador. First, the theoretical and empirical foundations are delineated, based on conceptual aspects and similar previous case studies. Second, three available models (input–output model, general equilibrium model, and social accounting matrix) are evaluated in terms of comparability, applicability, external validity, and scalability. Based on a comparison of the models, the input–output matrix ranks best in terms of comparability and external validity. Aware that other countries in the region are also interested in implementing similar efforts, we have completed this exercise prioritizing the comparability (across and within countries) and external validity aspects. Thus, this work may aid in the elaboration of future evaluation approaches in other Latin American countries.