The inclusive wealth of Nova Scotia's protected areas

The Inclusive Wealth of Nova Scotia’s Protected Areas: A Preliminary Estimate of Nature’s Benefits By Peter G. Lee Ryan Cheng Matt Hanneman The intent of this study is to provide a preliminary assessment of ecosystem services in economic terms so decision makers and the public can begin to appreciate the true value – the inclusive wealth – of Nova Scotia`s protected areas. [...] Natural capital is the extension of the economic notion of capital (manufactured means of production) to goods and services relating to the natural environment. [...] There is growing concern that if the costs of damage to the environment (the real costs) continue to go unpaid by the private sector and consumers, then the loss and damage to the environment will continue creating crises in the form of pollution, habitat degradation, and the more rapid loss of freshwater, fisheries and fertile soils. [...] Given the fundamental importance of natural capital to the sustainability of human communities, some economists are now reporting on the loss/degradation of natural capital in terms of the 9 costs due to a reduction in critical ecosystem services (Table 1). [...] Role of biota in the movement of floral Pollination of wild plant species and crops gametes Biological control Population and pest control Control of pests and diseases, reduction of herbivory (crop damage) Habitat.