Ecosystem Services Valuation: Assessing the Economic Importance of Environmental Resources

Abstract

Traditional economic models often overlook the immense, yet often invisible, contributions of natural ecosystems to human well-being. Ecosystem services valuation aims to bridge this gap by quantifying the economic value of the benefits provided by healthy ecosystems, from clean water and air to flood protection and recreation. This article explores the rationale and various methods of ecosystem services valuation, highlighting its critical role in informing sustainable decision-making and resource management.