There are many services that ecosystems provide that we never even consider, until we destroy them. Natural ecosystems help alleviate flooding, improve food security and protect our coastlines. Yet we consistently replace these ecosystems with manmade alternatives. If we put a price on nature, will it help us to protect these important ecosystems? And is it morally right to put a price on nature? Get answers with this course that uses an interdisciplinary approach to explore the ins and outs of how we value nature.
What topics will you cover?
- Putting a monetary value on nature
- What are ecosystem services and who benefits from them?
- Environmental Economics
- How much is the Earth worth?
- Debates, dilemmas and politics
Ecosystem services in action
- Local Scale - Valuing ecosystems in your area
- Regional Scale - South-West of England
- National Scale - Coral Reefs
- International Scale - REDD+ and saving the rainforests
What will you achieve?
- Describe the concept of 'valuing nature’
- Assess the moral and political dilemmas associated with valuing ecosystems
- Identify key ecosystem services in your place
- Compare different types of services that ecosystems provide
- Apply your understanding of ecosystem services to peatlands, coral reefs and rainforests
- Investigate the best ways to manage and preserve ecosystems and their service