METHODS OF ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENTAL VALUATION: INSTRUMENTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES

In recent decades, the use of economic valuation-methods has become an important tool for decision-making processes, which gives it a remarkable scientific recognition within contemporary society. Considering this reality, this paper aims to discuss the relevance of different Environmental Economic Valuation-Methods as instruments for environmental policy development. The methods presented were the followings: Avoided Cost Method, Travel Cost Method, Hedonic Price Method and Contingent Valuation Method, which correspond to the experiences obtained in four case studies developed in Colombia, Iran, Switzerland and Cuba, respectively. Based on a bibliographical review, the research demonstrated their pertinence for the development of environmental policies, considering how it provides data and knowledge that integrate simultaneously, natural, economic and social criteria, giving a systemic character that allows a right assignment and distribution of financial resources dedicated for activities that involve protection, conservation and natural spaces rehabilitation.