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A simple Ricardo-Malthusian model of population, deforestation and biodiversity loss

Author

Listed:
  • Late Lawson

    (BETA, CNRS, INRAE & University of Strasbourg)

  • Lawson Late

Abstract

This paper assesses the interactions between human societies and nature, arguing that population growth and forest resources harvest cause natural habitat conversion, which resolves into biodiversity loss. Relying on profit and utility maximization behaviours, we describe the joint evolution of population, forest and species stock by a dynamic system characterized by a locally stable steady state. Compared to existing studies, we enlighten the possibility of total extinction of biological species (empty forests). Furthermore, our analysis supports an impossible peaceful cohabitation, as in presence of human population growth, forest resources and species stock diverge from their carrying capacity. Finally, scenarios analyses associated with high fertility and preference for the resource-based good globally indicate rapid population growth followed by a sudden drop.

Suggested Citation

  • Late Lawson & Lawson Late, 2020. "A simple Ricardo-Malthusian model of population, deforestation and biodiversity loss," Working Papers 2020.08, FAERE - French Association of Environmental and Resource Economists.
    • Handle: RePEc:fae:wpaper:2020.08
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Economic growth; Population; Forest clearing; Habitat destruction; Species loss;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • Q32 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Nonrenewable Resources and Conservation - - - Exhaustible Resources and Economic Development
    • Q57 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Ecological Economics
    • R11 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Regional Economic Activity: Growth, Development, Environmental Issues, and Changes

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