In this book, the first of two volumes, the authors provide detailed case studies of valuation techniques that have been used in developing countries. They demonstrate that valuation works and that it can yield significant insights into policy-relevant issues regarding conservation and economic...

Democracy and natural resources -- Theoretical foundation of decentralization's potential environmental benefits -- Local accountability - institutional choices in practice -- Responsiveness of local institutions - power and capacity -- Lessons learned -- Recommendations -- Annex A: WRI research...