The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) Arctic Scoping Study is an early implementation pilot project that follows up on specific recommendations of the Arctic Biodiversity Assessment (ABA).
TEEB aims to bring biodiversity into mainstream decision makingmaking nature an important part of policy related to business, social and economic development, not just policy directly related to environmental management.
TEEB is a global initiative coordinated by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). TEEB draws attention to the benefits that people gain from nature (ecosystem services), including food from fishing and hunting, maintenance of culture, water, enjoyment of wilderness, nature and wildlife, and provision of raw materials. Equally important but less obvious benefits include climate regulation and flood control. TEEB also brings attention to the costs to society when ecosystems are damaged and when plant and animal populations are lost. TEEB provides an analytical approach, tools and guidance that can help make the range of natures benefits more visible when politicians, businesses and others make decisions that might affect these benefits or put them at risk.
