Temps de lecture : 7 min
Ecrit par Salomé Bernard
Biodiversity is not just an ecological issue; it is an invisible pillar of our economy and well-being. From forests that capture carbon to insects that pollinate our crops, the services provided by nature in France are estimated to be between 18 and 49 billion euros per year. However, this wealth is threatened: 44% of birds in agricultural areas have disappeared in 35 years.
In light of this reality, how can we integrate the value of biodiversity into our economic and political decisions? This article explores how to measure it, value it, and above all, protect it to make it a sustainable asset.
The monetary assessment of biodiversity: state of play
The quantification of the value of ecosystem services is a lever for raising awareness and aiding decision-making. In France, according to the French Assessment of Ecosystems and Ecosystem Services (Efese), the annual value of eight ecosystem services ranges from 18 to 49 billion euros, representing up to 1.8% of GDP. Among these services:
- Recreational uses in nature are estimated to be between 5.8 and 29 billion euros.
- Crop pollination represents an economic contribution of 0.5 to 3.8 billion euros.
- Carbon sequestration, particularly in wetlands, is estimated at around 240,000 euros per hectare.
These assessments, although partial, show the considerable contribution of biodiversity to human activities and justify ambitious conservation policies.
Various assessment methods for a more refined approach
The assessment of ecosystem services relies on several methodologies :
- Behavior-based methods, such as travel cost analysis, allow for the evaluation of the value of natural spaces through tourist attendance.
- Economic valuation methods, through market prices or avoided costs, are used to quantify the benefits of ecosystems (e.g. water filtration by soils avoiding the construction of treatment plants).
- Statement-based approaches probe citizens' willingness to pay for the preservation of a natural space.
However, these methods are still underutilized in decision-making processes, with only 5% of monetary assessments of biodiversity integrated into strategic decisions.
Integrating biodiversity into the value chain
Companies can rethink their models by adopting more sustainable practices :
- Eco-design : favoring recycled materials or those from sustainable practices.
- Green finance : investing in ecological restoration projects to offset their footprint.
Transforming biodiversity into market opportunity
Consumers are increasingly sensitive to companies' environmental commitments. Communicating about concrete actions (reforestation, sustainable agriculture, preservation of natural habitats) strengthens brand image and competitive differentiation.
Conclusion
Biodiversity is an invaluable natural capital, whose value cannot be reduced to a simple economic estimate. While monetary assessments provide a useful framework for better considering it in public and private decisions, they must be complemented by qualitative approaches and participatory processes. The urgency today is to translate this knowledge into concrete actions to preserve biodiversity and ensure the sustainability of the services it provides us.