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Chapter 7: Problem 3

Compare the concept of ecosystem capital with that of natural resources. What do the two reveal about values?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Ecosystem capital and natural resources both highlight the utilitarian values humans derive from the environment. However, ecosystem capital also acknowledges the intrinsic value of nature, while natural resources are valued mostly for their usefulness to humans. This reveals differing values of exploitation versus preservation.

Step by step solution

01

Define Ecosystem Capital

Ecosystem capital refers to the components of the environment that provide humans and every other species on the planet with resources and services that are vital for survival and well-being. These can include air, water, soil, plants, and animal life, which support activities like food production, water purification, climate regulation, and recreational activities. The value in ecosystem capital can be seen in both its intrinsic worth, as these elements are vital to life on Earth, and its instrumental worth, as they provide services that allow societies to function and thrive.
02

Define Natural Resources

Natural resources, on the other hand, refer to materials or substances occurring in nature that can be exploited for economic gain. This includes minerals, forests, water bodies, and fertile land that can be used for farming. Natural resources are typically seen from a use-value perspective, meaning they have value insofar as they can be used for human purposes, whether that’s economic activity or supporting human life and well-being.
03

Compare and evaluate the values

While both ecosystem capital and natural resources reflect the utilitarian value humans derive from nature, ecosystem capital also acknowledges the intrinsic value of natural systems—their worth apart from human use. This distinction reveals a difference in values: one that respects nature primarily for its usefulness (as seen in the natural resource perspective), and one that also respects nature for its own sake aside from human exploitation (as seen in the ecosystem capital perspective). It illuminates the ongoing debate on the need to balance the exploitation of natural resources for human gain, with the preservation of ecosystems as valuable in and of themselves.

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