How can we measure the contribution of ecosystems to our prosperity?
Monday, July 7, 2014 - 09:01
in Earth & Climate
Systematic measurements of the condition of ecosystems and their contribution to our prosperity are vital in a world undergoing rapid environmental change. Changes in ecosystems and the climate are often irreversible and the depletion of natural resources is limiting our options. But what is the economic importance of ecosystems, what is sustainable, and more importantly: how can you measure these factors? We need to understand more about how ecosystems are changing and the impact of our economic practices, says Professor Lars Hein, Professor (holding a personal chair) of Ecosystem Services and Environmental Change at Wageningen University.