Comhar SDC would like to invite you to attend a conference on The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity on the 24th June 2010.  

The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) study is a major international initiative to draw attention to the global economic benefits of biodiversity, to highlight the growing costs of biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation, and to draw together expertise from the fields of science, economics and policy to advance practical action to address the biodiversity crisis.

The TEEB study has produced reports for policy makers and those involved in the policy making process at national, regional and local level.  The TEEB study demonstrates the value of ecosystems and biodiversity to the economy, to society and to individuals. It underlines the urgency of action, as well as the benefits and opportunities that will arise as a result of taking such action. The study shows that the cost of sustaining biodiversity and ecosystem services is lower than the cost of allowing biodiversity and ecosystem services to decline. It demonstrates how we can take into account the value of ecosystems and biodiversity in policy decisions and identify and support solutions, new instruments, and wider use of existing tools to address biodiversity loss.  

The conference will commence at 10.30 am in the Clarion Hotel, IFSC, Dublin and the draft Conference Programme is attached. TEEB team members will present their findings in a plenary session.  This will be followed by workshop sessions which will consider the transferability of TEEB approach, findings and recommendations to Ireland and produce recommendations and ideas for next steps.

In order to reserve a place at this conference, please complete the Conference Registration
Form (attached) and email to Sheila.hynes@environ.ie  or by post to
Sheila Hynes, Comhar SDC, Floor 2 Block 7, Irish Life Centre, Dublin 1,   tel: 01 888 2973.

The closing date for receipt of completed Registration Forms is Friday 11th June 2010.  As places are limited, please register before this date to secure a place.