Economy, or Environment?
David, of Southern Fried Science, asked why should we protect the environment in times of economic crisis?
“As conservationists, we understand the value of nature for nature’s sake. We understand that not only is nature important for it’s own sake, but for the ecosystem services provided for us, such as purification of air and water, protection from erosion, crop pollination and more. For more business-minded types, then we do need to explain it in terms they understand–money.
In an economic valuation of Caribbean reefs by the World Resources Institute in 2000, net annual values was over $300 million for coral reef-associated fisheries, $2 billion for dive tourism and the estimated value of coastline protection by coral reefs was estimated to be between $700 million and $2.2 billion. Hawaii’s coral reefs are valued at $10 billion, with the economic benefits estimated at $360 million a year!
The economy vs environment myth was dispelled 10 years ago by MIT, who found that “states with stronger environmental policies consistently out-performed the weaker environmental states on all the economic measures.”
For the first time in 25 years, Gallup’s poll shows that the majority of Americans feel the economy should be given priority over the environment. Yet in 1984, 60 percent chose environmental protection over economic growth. What changed?
I believe it is possible that we can handle our economic troubles while still protecting the environment. Instead of desecrating nature to build malls and create jobs, we can offer jobs that help protect nature. Environmental conservation and economic growth can be compatible.”
-Allie Wilkinson
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