Question 77 from UPSC CSE 2016 - Environment

Question

With reference to an initiative called 'The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB)', which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is an initiative hosted by UNEP, IMF and World Economic Forum.
2. It is a global initiative that focuses on drawing attention to the economic benefits of biodiversity.
3. It presents an approach that can help decision-makers recognize, demonstrate and capture the value of ecosystems and biodiversity.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. 2 and 3 only

Strategy: Evaluate Statement 1 by verifying the known host organizations of the initiative. Assess Statements 2 and 3 by interpreting the initiative's name to determine its core objectives.

Key Info: The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) is a global initiative launched in 2007, aiming to draw attention to the economic benefits of biodiversity and the growing costs of biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. It seeks to integrate the economic value of biodiversity and ecosystem services into decision-making.

**Hosting and Management:** TEEB is hosted by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It is not hosted by the IMF or World Economic Forum, although these organizations may engage with TEEB's findings or related topics.

**Funding:** The initiative is funded by several countries and organizations, including the European Commission, Germany, United Kingdom, Norway, the Netherlands, and Sweden.

**Objectives:** TEEB focuses on:
*   Highlighting the global economic benefits of biodiversity.
*   Drawing attention to the costs of biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation.
*   Providing an approach to help decision-makers recognize, demonstrate, and capture the value of ecosystems and biodiversity.
*   Bringing together expertise from science, economics, and policy to enable practical actions.

**Significance:** TEEB is a crucial partner in implementing the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) programme of work on incentive measures, particularly its valuation efforts. Its reports provide a framework for assessing, reporting, and mainstreaming the values of nature.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: 1 and 2 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: 3 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: 1, 2, and 3