Abstract
Loss and increase of biodiversity in marine ecosystems over relatively short periods of time is to a large extent the result of economic forces and mechanisms. An economic analysis of the value of changes in biodiversity can contribute to its conservation and protection. This project aims to investigate the opportunities for such research. The project will focus on functional biodiversity. Attention will be devoted to integrated modelling and interaction between ecology and economics. In addition, the issue of non-use values associated with marine systems and biodiversity will be studied. In particular, multiple effects of changes in biodiversity will be considered. including use values, non-use values, human health implications and ecosystem impacts. Some of the ideas will be applied in a case study of the North Sea or the Wadden Sea. Selection of the case will be part of the research and depend on conceptual/theoretical progress of the project and interaction with natural scientists in other projects.
Netherlands