Discover the many ways that we benefit from the natural world through ecosystem services. 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.

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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.

Syllabus

Week 1: Putting a Price on Nature

Week 2: Ecosystem Services in Action

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you'll be able to...

- Describe the concept of 'valuing nature’

- Compare different types of services that ecosystems provide

- Assess the moral and political dilemmas associated with valuing ecosystems

- Apply your understanding of ecosystem services to peatlands, coral reefs and rainforests

- Identify key ecosystem services in your place

- Investigate the best ways to manage and preserve ecosystems and their services