Justice and biodiversity offsetting

Abstract

Abstract This chapter explores the role that offsetting can play in biodiversity conservation. It begins by defining how offsetting works and discusses how it is a form of trading. The chapter continues by outlining the moral case for biodiversity offsetting. It then shows that offsetting can serve to give legitimacy to serious harms that affect both human and non-human animals. Further, it then explores the worry that it can undermine commitment to more robust measures to preserve biodiversity. Finally, it explains how, in light of these dangers, the remarkable proliferation of biodiversity offsetting schemes in conservation practice should be of serious concern.