Perspective Chapter: The Economics of Biodiversity and a Pragmatic Science for the Development of the Amazon in the 21st Century

Abstract

The use of knowledge of nature based on science and technology should be the way to economically and socially just inclusion in a new model of development of the region, generated from local conceptions but integrated with the new demands of current and future societies of the planet. Therefore, it is necessary to improve a new economy based on innovation and the sustainable use of biodiversity to generate wealth for the Amazon region and avoid activities such as cattle ranching, soy and illegal logging. The Amazon is facing a major challenge between continuing to grow at relatively low rates with a high cost to the environment and a deep social depression, or changing this pattern of development and pursuing environmentally sustained and inclusive economic growth to ensure the supply of environmental goods and services on which the well-being of the planet depends.