The value of the world’s ecosystem services and natural capital

Authors:
Costanza, R., R. d'Arge, R. de Groots, S. Farber, M. Grasso, B. Hannon, K. Limburg, S. Naeem, R.V. O'Neill, J. Paruelo, R.G. Raskin, P. Sutton, M. van den Belt

Publication Date:
1997

Abstract/Summary:
We have estimated the current economic value of 17 ecosystem services for 16 biomes, based on published studies and a few original calculations. For the entire biosphere, the value (most of which is outside the market) is estimated to be in the range of US$16–54 trillion (1012) per year, with an average of US$33 trillion per year. Because of the nature of the uncertainties, this must be considered a minimum estimate. Global gross national product total is around US$18 trillion per year.

Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article

Source:
Nature

Link:
http://www.esd.ornl.gov/benefits_conference/nature_paper.pdf