Roots of Prosperity: The Economics and Finance of Restoring Land

December 2017

by Helen Ding, Sofia Faruqi, Andrew Wu, Juan-Carlos Altamirano, Andrés Anchondo Ortega, René Zamora Cristales, Robin Chazdon, Walter Vergara and Michael Verdone

World Resources Institute

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This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the benefits and costs of restoring forests and landscapes in countries around the world, demonstrating how smart policies and innovative financing can help governments meet their restoration targets.

The authors find that finance, both public and private, for restoration is inadequate for seven reasons, and offers solutions to these financial barriers. The publication also outlines the main steps involved in carrying out economic analyses, bringing to light the full value of ecosystem services and social benefits as well as the costs of degradation.

These insights can help governments to develop policy instruments and financing mechanisms that promote restoration on the ground. They can also help stakeholders incorporate environmental and social benefits into financing decisions.

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