Economics of Protected Areas

The true economic value of protected areas, including national parks (such as the Lake District), scientific reserves, wildlife sanctuaries and natural monuments and landmarks, is often difficult to measure. They may be the repositories of unique or very valuable natural assets, yet the short-term gains from exploiting their natural resources can often appear more attractive than the long-term benefits of husbandry and conservation. This book helps governmental and non-governmental agencies assess the costs and benefits associated with maintaining protected areas. More important still, it provides a method for assigning monetary values to natural features. Part one explains the available economic techniques and how to apply them. Part two applies these general principles to specific case studies in Thailand and other developing nations in Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa. The authors provide a comprehensive overview of what is a rapidly changing field affecting the planning and administration of protected areas.
The authors are contributors to "Economic Analysis of the Environmental Impacts of Development Projects", "The Economics of Dryland Management" and editors of "Dryland Management: Economic Case Studies".