Earthscan publishes updated TEEB volume for Local and Regional Policy and Management
Earthscan has published the final volume in a series on the influential study into The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB).
TEEB in Local and Regional Policy Management is edited by Heidi Wittmer and Haripriya Gundimeda, who were the joint coordinators of the ground-breaking TEEB report for Local and Regional Policy, released in September 2009.
This Earthscan volume, published today, builds extensively on the original TEEB report and aims to show that by taking nature's benefits into account, decision makers can promote local development to ensure human well-being and economic growth and stability, while maintaining environmental sustainability.
The book explores the potential for local development provided by an approach based on nature. It offers examples of successful implementation of this approach from across the world, highlighting the importance of local decision making in management and planning. It provides tools and practical guidance for reform, and throughout the volume the economic benefits of environmental consideration at a local level are expounded. One of the popular TEEB tools, the TEEB ‘Stepwise Approach’ has been expanded to assist policy and planning decisions.
Heidi Wittmer comments: “Since the original reports came out in 2009 and 2010, we have seen a steady increase in TEEB interest at both a national and local level. There are a number of TEEB-inspired studies underway around the world as decision-makers start to see how the TEEB approach can help them grapple with understanding the economic and human well-being consequences of environmental management decisions. We hope that this volume will act as a catalyst to further action at a local level and also act as a valuable resource for tertiary studies.”
With a wealth of information on ecosystems and biodiversity in relation to spatial planning, public management, and policy planning, the book also has information on topics such as conservation banking, certification and how to make natural capital work at a local level. The numerous case studies throughout the volume show that the TEEB approach is as valid for major urban areas as it is for rural communities.
Kobie Brand, Regional Director- Africa, for ICLEI, the global local governments for sustainability organisation comments: “TEEB has made a significant contribution to understanding how much we rely on ecosystems, on all that Nature provides. Here is a volume that decision makers can use to proactively address some of the underlying planning and environment issues that impact sustainable development. In the light of discussions that will take place at the upcoming Rio+20 Summit, I would consider TEEB in Local and Regional Policy and Management to be a ‘must-read’.”
Further information can be found at www.teebweb.org. The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity in Local and Regional Policy Making retails for GBP 49.99. ISBN: 978-1-84971-252-1. There is also a 20% discount available via the TEEB website until 30 April.
The TEEB Study is hosted by the United Nations Environment Programme.