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University of Exeter

Valuing Nature: Should We Put a Price on Ecosystems?

University of Exeter via FutureLearn

This course may be unavailable.

Overview

Explore how we value the natural world

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.

This course is for anyone interested in nature and the environment, you don’t need any past experience.

Syllabus

  • Putting a Price on Nature
    • Introduction to Ecosystem Services
    • Types of Ecosystem Services
    • Placing a value on an ecosystem
    • Summary and Reflect
  • Ecosystem Services in Action
    • Regional Scale Services - South-West England
    • National Scale Services - Coral Reefs
    • International Scale Services - REDD+
    • Assignment
    • Summary and Reflect

Taught by

Tim Lenton

Reviews

5.0 rating, based on 1 Class Central review

4.7 rating at FutureLearn based on 59 ratings

Start your review of Valuing Nature: Should We Put a Price on Ecosystems?

  • Millie B.
    I have a background in environmental science, but I think this course is fine for anyone wanting to learn more about ecosystem services and how and why we try to place a value on nature. I found the course very educational.

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