Measurement of Cross-Regional Ecological Compensation Standards from a Dual Perspective of Costs and Benefits

Establishing scientifically sound and equitable compensation standards is crucial for effective ecological compensation. This study focuses on the quantitative assessment of ecological compensation standards in the water-source areas of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project. Based on the dual perspective of cost and benefit, we embed a three-dimensional dynamic adjustment coefficient—water volume, water quality, and payment capacity—and fully considered spillover effects. Using the AHP-Entropy Method, the allocation ratio of the water-receiving area was scientifically divided, achieving differentiated distribution and dynamic adaptation of the compensation mechanism. The compensation allocation ratio for water-receiving areas was determined, ensuring differentiated distribution and dynamic adaptability in the compensation mechanism. The results show the following: (1) In 2023, the ecological compensation amount for Yangzhou, based on the cost method and the equivalent factor method, ranges from CNY 1.21 billion to 2.53 billion. The amount of compensation after the dynamic game between both parties can avoid the waste of resources caused by over-compensation, and at the same time make up for the shortcomings of under-compensation due to the current water price. (2) Ecological compensation is measured only from the single perspective of the water-source area, without considering the differences in the receiving area. This paper uses the AHP-entropy value method to combine and assign weights, and calculates the apportionment ratio of the main water-receiving areas of Shandong Province in the east line of the South-to-North Water Diversion: for the Jiaodong line, these are Qingdao 20.97% and Jinan 14.53%, and for the North Shandong line, they are Dongying 23.98%, Dezhou 13.68%, Liaocheng 9.47%, and Binzhou 17.37%. (3) The dynamic correction coefficient and game model can effectively balance the cost of protecting the water-source area and the receiving area’s ability to pay, and combination with the empowerment method enhances the regional difference in suitability.