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

2

3

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.

4

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’

.

F W C

5

We have the model: let’s make a map!

6

F

W C

…let’s make a map!

7

W

F C

…let’s make a map!

8

C

F W

…let’s make a map!

9

to a legitimate plan?

€!

10

F W

C

a legitimate plan…

…does not require monetary valuation

11

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

.

12

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

.

…represent economy’s failures

rather than societal value

13

The end justifies the means, but the means determine the end.

Bakunin

If you have a hammer, every

problem looks like a nail.Maslow

14