Pioneering science, technology, and partnerships that enable people and nature to thrive.
Natural Capital Project
The Stanford Natural Capital Project drives innovation across disciplines and supports the diverse work of our entire partnership
2020 Natural Capital Symposium
March 16-18 at Stanford University
What We’re Up To
Catch up on news and events at The Natural Capital Project.
Stanford researchers offer a practical guide to planning and achieving green growth.
Economic development plans often overlook a crucial detail – ecosystems that provide essential services to people. Stanford experts discuss a new sustainable development approach that balances the needs of people and nature.
Building nature into cities for better mental health
Studies show that spending time in nature can improve mental health.
Q and A with Kate Brauman and Steve Polasky
Kate Brauman and Steve Polasky are authors on the Global Assessment on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES).
Investment in renewable energy could save tropical rivers
The key to saving the planet’s tropical rivers lies in investing in renewable energy technologies such as solar and wind power rather than building large hydropower dams…
Are coffee farms for the birds? Yes and no.
Apr 29, 2019Much is known about coffee plantations’ effects on Costa Rica’s agricultural landscape, but their impacts on nature–specifically tropical bird biodiversity–have largely remained a mystery until now. While some coffee plantations are able to host a...
Farmers in China can manage their land for economic as well as environmental benefits, Stanford researchers find
Expanding monoculture threatens valuable services from land, such as flood control, water purification and climate stabilization. A new approach promises to protect these benefits.