How can we reconcile biodiversity conservation and development?

• ©F. Palmero Pavón

Halting the biodiversity loss is now in our hands

Estimate the value of biodiversity is a challenge, particularly the economic value in terms of the ecosystem services to which it contributes, such as the provision of food, the regulation of climate, the formation of soil and to cultural and spiritual fulfilment. Studies such as The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) draw attention to the economic benefits of biodiversity and highlight the growing economic costs of environmental degradation. They estimate the total value of biodiversity and its services at US$ 33000 billion/year, or twice the value of the world economy. More

• 17-02-2010