Economic benefits of biodiversity corridors: A cross‐sectional study of households in the Central Annamite Landscape, Vietnam

Abstract Biodiversity corridors aim to reconnect fragmented habitats and protected areas, yet their impact on landowners varies and requires assessment. In the Central Annamite Landscape, Vietnam, initiatives like Payment for Forest Environment Services (PFES) for watershed protection, forest restoration, and non‐timber forest product development program seek to enhance conservation‐based livelihoods. A survey of 120 households across four villages was conducted to compare income and other livelihood benefits of landholders residing inside and outside the biodiversity corridors. Findings revealed that landowners within the corridors earned significantly higher incomes (USD 412/ha/year) primarily from PFES payments for watershed protection and participation in restoration activities, while those outside earned less (USD 330/ha/year) from afforestation (Acacia plantations) and forest product harvesting. Households inside corridors also reported greater access to livelihood support, improved forest governance, and higher participation in community‐based forest management. To maximize benefits for landowners, local policies should expand conservation incentives, including restoration, patrolling, and monitoring. Interventions should leverage local assets to create alternative income sources, reducing dependence on forest exploitation. Strengthening conservation‐oriented livelihoods can enhance the economic benefits for landowners while ensuring the long‐term sustainability of biodiversity corridors.