This volume investigates how the economic valuation of ecosystems and biodiversity can be effectively integrated into local and regional policy frameworks to improve environmental management. Edited by Heidi Wittmer and Haripriya Gundimeda, the text synthesizes research from various global case studies to demonstrate the practical application of economic tools. It argues that local governance is the critical scale for implementing conservation strategies that align ecological health with economic development goals.

Experts and policy analysts view this work as a foundational resource for practitioners seeking to bridge the gap between ecological theory and administrative policy. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which is tailored for professionals and researchers in environmental economics and public administration.