ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION: AN OUTLOOK FROM SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING

Abstract

ABSTRACT

There is ample evidence that the environment is in serious danger. The problem posed by environmental degradation is a very complex one and it depends on both ecological and human-related factors. The understanding of the relationship between environmental and social systems is, therefore, key in order to design strategies and public policies addressing environmental problems.

The objective of this paper is analyzing the issue of environmental degradation, as well as illustrating the contributions made by ecological economics and, concretely, a branch of it that uses measures of subjective wellbeing, in the search for solutions to environmental problems. Studies on wellbeing suggest that environmental degradation has a very negative effect on subjective well-being. Besides, preoccupation about environmental degradation itself has also a negative effect on people’s happiness. Moreover, environmental responsible behaviors have been found to show a positive relationship with subjective well-being. Studies on well-being can also make a great contribution in the investigation of the causes of the knowledge-concern-action paradox.

All these considerations are of great importance for the design and implementation of public policies aimed at putting an end to environmental degradation, as well as to foster a growing consciousness among population on the need for a definitive solution to environmental problems.