Luca Tacconi

Rethinking the economic analysis of forests: theory and practice

The principles for the economic analysis of forests presented by Godoy are reviewed here and are found to be flawed. A more satisfactory formulation of the neoclassical economic approach to the analysis of forest management options is presented. The ethical and distributional implications of this approach are criticised. Some theoretical and empirical problems faced by the neoclassical valuation methodology are also outlined. This paper argues for the adoption of a participatory land use planning (which may eventually employ the neoclassical valuation approach in a constrained fashion) to the distribution and allocation of forest resources.

Property rights and participatory biodiversity conservation: lessons from Malekula Island, Vanuatu

Abstract The implementation of the biologically-focused and/or legally-focused approaches to conservation has contributed to the cultural and socioeconomic marginalization of many people living within or close to protected areas (PAs). As a result, many PAs suffer from encroachment by the people living near them. The paper shows how the establishment of conservation initiatives may benefit from: (i) a participatory identification, assessment and establishment process that accounts for existing property rights, local peoples needs and wants; and (ii) legislation that recognizes and strengthens customary property rights. The paper considers the lessons derived from experience on the island of Malekula, Vanuatu.

Dissent from choice theory: implications for environmental decision making

Shows the importance of heeding Clem Tisdell’s call to devote attention to values and to consider further the limitations of unbounded rationality models in economic research. Outlines the implications of a criticism of choice theory for environmental decision‐making. The critics of positivist philosophy of science show that it is impossible to carry out any analysis without making value judgements. The economist cannot escape this neither in theoretical analyses nor in applied studies. In relation to Clem Tisdell’s call to consider values without pontificating on them, it is important to make two points. First, the analysts should state as clearly as possible the values that guide their specific analyses. Second, they could provide the decision makers with a range of options that depend on different stakeholders’ ethical positions. Describes elements of the participatory decision‐making process. It is noted that this approach to evaluation may enhance the rationality of the choices; better represent the values of the various stakeholders; and allow an improved interaction between individuals and institutions.