Turning an ecosystem disservice into a service: Exploring the willingness to adopt a novel use for an invasive plant

The restoration of ecosystem services (ES) is essential for addressing growing food insecurity and livelihood vulnerability in the Sahel. In this context, invasive plant species represent a major ecosystem disservice. Our study focuses on the Hadejia Valley, in Northern Nigeria, where the invasive plant species Typha spp. has become a serious environmental and socio-economic threat, degrading wetlands and irrigation systems, vital for local livelihoods. We analyze the adoption of a nature-based solution (NbS) that manages this ecosystem disservice by converting Typha biomass into livestock silage, thereby generating a new provisioning ES while supporting climate resilience and food security. Using survey data from 260 herders in Hadejia Valley, we apply Heckman’s two-stage model to examine both the decision to adopt this solution and the willingness to pay (WTP) for silage derived from Typha. The results show that although women are less likely to adopt the practice, they exhibit a higher WTP for the silage. Membership in herder organizations and shared infrastructure significantly increase WTP. Transhumant herders are more inclined to adopt the technology, reflecting its relevance to mobile pastoral systems. Furthermore, participation in workshops and demonstration sessions positively influence adoption decisions. These findings offer critical insights for designing and scaling locally adapted NbS in the region. By linking ecosystem restoration with livelihood resilience, the study highlights a promising pathway for sustainable development in drought-prone pastoral areas.