This book presents the findings of the study, and offers analysis of both its methodological and policy-related implications. On the methodology side, it assesses and validates the valuation workshop approach; appraises the effect of distance on willingness to pay and the influence of the respondents ability to pay. From a policy perspective, the book examines the attitudes and preference of respondents on trade-offs between economic growth and ecological use.

1. Introduction.- 1.1 Problem Statement.- 1.2 Goal of the Study.- 1.3 Structure of the Thesis.- 2. Background Information of Poyang Lake and Yangtze Finless Porpoises.- 2.1 Introduction to Poyang Lake.- 2.2 Uses of Poyang Lake.- 2.3 Use Conflicts in Poyang Lake.- 2.4 Yangtze Finless Porpoises.- 2.5 Conclusion.- 3. Theoretical Background on Economic Valuation.- 3.1 Introduction: Reasons for Economic Valuation.- 3.2 Market failure on the Protection of Yangtze Finless Porpoises.- 3.3 Total Economic Value.- 3.4 Economic Valuation Methods.- 3.5 Theoretical Basis of Contingent Valuation Method.- 3.6 Challenges Faced by Contingent Valuation.- 3.7 Conclusion.- 4. Questionnaire Development.- 4.1 Focus Group.- 4.2 Questionnaire Structure.- 4.3 Pre-Test and Modification of Questionnaire.- 4.4 Implementation of the Questionnaire.- 4.5 Survey Method.- 5. Results.- 5.1 Sample Characteristics.- 5.2 Attitudinal Questions.- 5.3 Validity of Responses.- 5.4 Quantitative Analysis.- 5.5 Conclusion.- 6. Discussion.- 6.1 Difficulties with the Design of Contingent Valuation Studies in China.- 6.2 Distance Effect.- 6.3 Different WTP in Germany and China.- 6.4 Summary.- 7. Conclusions.- 7.1 General Conclusions.- 7.2 Recommendations for Future Research.- Appendix A: Demographic characteristics of participants in Focus Groups.- Appendix B: Summary of Focus Group Findings.- Appendix C: Summary of Interviews with Experts.- Appendix D: Questionnaire.- Index.