Monetarization and Institutionalization
Some observations from practical ES-assessments
S. Jacobs, K. Van der Biest, J. Staes, R. D’hondt, D. Landuyt & P.Meire
University of AntwerpEcosystem Management Research Group
Vila Nova de Gaia – May 18th 2012
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Pavan Sukhdev (TEEB-synthesis report 2010):
Valuation is seen not as a panacea, but rather as a tool to help recalibrate the faulty economic compass that has led us to decisions that are prejudicial to both current well-being and that of future generations. The invisibility of biodiversity values has often encouraged inefficient use or even destruction of the natural capital that is the foundation of our economies.
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Total delivery of Bundled ES- Model describing several ecosystem services, - Their physical basis- Their land-use requirements- Their interactions- Their uncertainty- And combine these into a total ‘bundle indicator’
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F W C
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We have the model: let’s make a map!
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F
W C
…let’s make a map!
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W
F C
…let’s make a map!
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C
F W
…let’s make a map!
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to a legitimate plan?
€!
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F W
C
a legitimate plan…
…does not require monetary valuation
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The huge numbers…- Monetary valuation as risk for ‘commodification’ BUT
+ many ES have been commodified (problematically) already+ requires clear measurable units: difficult for regulating & cultural+ valuation is incomplete or extremely variable in space & time
+ Monetary valuation of ES as trial to uncover market failures- Externalities not included now- Unequal profit distribution now- Unsustainable practices now
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The huge numbers…- Monetary valuation as risk for ‘commodification’ BUT
+ many ES have been commodified (problematically) already+ requires clear measurable units: difficult for regulating & cultural+ valuation is incomplete or extremely variable in space & time
+ Monetary valuation of ES as trial to uncover market failures- Externalities not included now- Unequal profit distribution now- Unsustainable practices now
=> Preventing abuse of ES monetary approaches: - Broad and participatory approach, - bundled services,- Local roots, - Relevant power structures: NGO’s, enterprises- Code of conduct IPBES/IPST
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…represent economy’s failures
rather than societal value
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The end justifies the means, but the means determine the end.
Bakunin
If you have a hammer, every
problem looks like a nail.Maslow
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