Understanding the Economic Invisibility of Nature

What is the main focus of the TEEB project initiated in 2007?

• To promote renewable energy sources.

• To develop new financial markets for natural resources.

• To assess the economic value of biodiversity and ecosystem services.

• To create a global database of endangered species.

How does the Amazon rainforest contribute to the economy of Latin America?

• By acting as a rain factory supporting agriculture.

• By being a major tourist attraction.

• By supplying medicinal plants.

• By providing timber for export.

What is the economic invisibility of nature as discussed in the context of the Amazon?

• The unrecognized potential for tourism.

• The undervaluation of timber resources.

• The hidden costs of deforestation.

• The lack of market pricing for ecosystem services.

Why are ecosystem services particularly important for the poor in countries like Brazil, India, and Indonesia?

• They provide a significant portion of GDP.

• They offer free resources crucial for survival.

• They are the main source of employment.

• They are heavily subsidized by the government.

What is the main challenge in balancing public benefits and private profits?

• The lack of interest from private companies.

• The difficulty in measuring public wealth.

• The absence of government regulations.

• The focus on short-term financial gains.

What was the impact of deforestation in China in the late 1990s?

• Improved air quality.

• Rapid urbanization.

• Severe flooding and droughts.

• Increased agricultural productivity.

What is the purpose of green accounting as discussed in the transcript?

• To calculate the carbon footprint of nations.

• To include natural capital in economic assessments.

• To monitor global biodiversity levels.

• To track the financial performance of companies.

What is the significance of externalities in the context of business operations?

• They are benefits provided by nature.

• They are government-imposed taxes.

• They are additional profits for companies.

• They represent hidden costs to society.

How do coral reefs contribute to the livelihoods of people globally?

• By being a source of renewable energy.

• By supporting marine biodiversity and fisheries.

• By providing raw materials for construction.

• By offering recreational activities.

What ethical choice is highlighted in the context of climate targets?

• Focusing on renewable energy over fossil fuels.

• Choosing economic growth over environmental protection.

• Prioritizing industrial development over biodiversity.

• Accepting the loss of coral reefs for higher carbon targets.