Welcome to the course on Biodiversity Valuation

This course consists of 3 modules, which focus on the valuation of ecosystem services and the application of economic valuation methods, as these are particularly salient for economic decision-making. Learning about biodiversity valuation implies understanding that the incorporation of values, and the application of valuation methods, is itself value-driven. The Convention on Biological Diversity recognizes that there is a broad range of biodiversity values in addition to economic value, including intrinsic, ecological, genetic, social, scientific, educational, cultural, recreational and aesthetic values. In line with national conditions, priorities and value systems, recognizing this diversity of values can provide the basis for the inclusive valuation of nature (biodiversity) and its multiple benefits for people, in line with the approach of the Intergovernmental Panel on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES).

NOTE: With the discontinuation of Flash Player, some of the content in these modules may not be visible. Please visit the NBSAP Forum and the Learning for Nature platforms to access similar content.

In this module, we provide an overview of the consequences and causes of biodiversity loss, a description of the range of ecosystem services that nature provides, and an introduction to the concept of economic valuation of biodiversity and ecosystem services (45 minutes). 

NOTE: With the discontinuation of Flash Player, some of the content in this module may not be visible. Please visit the NBSAP Forum (here) and the Learning for Nature (here) platforms to access similar modules.

In this module, we examine a range of valuation tools and methods, and learn about the different circumstances in which each tool can best be applied.

This module begins by providing a summary of the most frequently applied methods for assessing the economic values of biodiversity and ecosystem services, and then continues with a selection of examples of how these methods have been applied in the economic valuation of various types of ecosystem services around the world.

30 minutes

In this module, we present a step-by-step process of assessing the values of ecosystem services to society, and developing mechanisms for integrating this value into development plans and resource sectors. Case studies are provided to help illustrate the process (30 minutes)

NOTE: With the discontinuation of Flash Player, some of the content in this module may not be visible.