Non-quantifiable Benefits and 2nd and 3rd Order
Effects
It is essential that resource managers and review-
ers in the MDEP and PEG briefings have a solid un-
derstanding of the role of non-quantifiable benefits
in the CBA so that they are adequately addressed.
Minimizing or leaving out non-quantifiable benefits
will result in unsatisfactory analysis on which to base
leadership investment decisions. The DASA CE CBA
guide lists examples of non-quantifiable benefits such
as improved morale; compatibility; improved qual-
ity and security; and improved readiness (DASA CE
2010, 31). Non-quantifiable benefits of sustainable
solutions certainly include soldier security and im-
proved readiness, but they can also include numerous
other benefits regarding health and resilience not only
of the soldiers but of the ecosystem and surrounding
community who share the same natural resources.
These impacts can also be considered second and
third order effects. The CBA guide states: “In addi-
tion to the primary intended consequence of a deci-
sion, there can be second and third order effects. The
concept of second and third order effects is based on
a sequential cause and effect relationship” (DASA CE
2010, 47). Non-quantifiable benefits are closely linked
to second and third order effects because of the impact
an initiative may have on stakeholders, frequently the
public. This can be true for domestic initiatives on
bases with the surrounding community and for non-
traditional base camps in host nation settings. Fac-
tors such as reduction or elimination of toxic waste in
water or the preservation of air quality by methods
that don’t involve burning waste clearly have a posi-
tive impact on health risk for soldiers as well as local