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Comprehensive Economic Valuation Underscores Urgency for Restoration Investment
A groundbreaking new report released by The Everglades Foundation, in collaboration with Earth Economics, estimates the value of ecosystem services provided by America’s Everglades at more than $1 trillion over the next 50 years.
This first-of-its-kind economic analysis— “Thriving Everglades, Thriving Economy: Nature’s Value in the Everglades”—provides a powerful tool for informing policy and investment in the largest subtropical wetland ecosystem in the continental United States.
“This report delivers clear, quantified evidence on how the health of the Everglades is directly tied to America’s economic well-being,” said Paul Hindsley, Chief Economist at The Everglades Foundation and co-author of the study. “Restoring this national treasure secures economic prosperity today and safeguards its benefits for generations to come.”
Unveiled during the America’s Everglades Summit in Washington, D.C., the report highlights the Everglades’ $31.5 billion annual contribution to the economy through ecosystem services that include:
- Real Estate Enhancement – $9.2 billion
- Outdoor Recreation – $8.5 billion
- Protection from Extreme Weather Events – $8.4 billion
- Biodiversity & Habitat – $3.3 billion
“The Everglades is an invaluable natural asset, improving the quality of life for residents and visitors to South Florida,” said Maya Kocian, Executive Director of Earth Economics. “This report lays a foundation for articulating the Everglades’ importance to the region’s economy and the continued need for restoration for resilience. An investment in nature is an investment in Floridians and Florida’s economy.”
The study also underscores the risks of inaction. Harmful algal blooms in 2013 and 2018 caused over $3 billion in losses to real estate and tourism in just two Florida counties. Reduced freshwater flows continue to threaten Florida Bay and the regional economy it sustains.
Restoring the Everglades has long been a bipartisan priority, requiring consistent state and federal funding. The new economic research will serve as a powerful tool to educate decision-makers and the public about the far-reaching value of the Everglades and why restoration is essential for Florida’s future.
ABOUT THE EVERGLADES FOUNDATION
The Everglades Foundation is committed to the restoration and protection of America’s Everglades through science, advocacy, and education. Founded in 1993 by two outdoor enthusiasts—Paul Tudor Jones II and the late George Barley—the Foundation works to bring people together and provide a powerful bipartisan voice for Everglades restoration. Its team includes renowned scientists, experienced educators, policy experts, and communications professionals. By coupling this expertise with a passion for restoration, The Everglades Foundation leads the effort to restore and protect the flow of clean freshwater to the Everglades through the world’s largest ecosystem restoration project. Learn more at EvergladesFoundation.org.
