Biodiversity is facing unprecedented threats, with experts warning of a potential sixth mass extinction. This decline jeopardizes ecosystem functioning and the essential services they provide, particularly in agriculture. Pollination services are crucial for the production of many agricultural goods, directly linking human diets to the health of these ecosystems.
Research Goals: This thesis aims to utilize household data from Germany to estimate the contribution of pollination services to the consumption patterns of German households. We will focus on how these services impact different income groups, addressing the following research questions:
- How do income differences influence the benefits derived from pollination services among German households?
- Is there a significant reliance on pollination services from distant regions among wealthier households, and what does this mean for local biodiversity?
- Your own research questions.
Data & Software: A comprehensive dataset on household income and consumption (EVS) will be provided. Students will receive assistance in acquiring data on pollination services. Data analysis can be conducted using R or Python, based on the student's preference.
Learning Outcomes:
- Proficiency in handling and analyzing household data.
- Understanding of environmental accounting and its implications for policy.
- Skills in statistical analysis and data visualization.
- Experience in conducting policy-relevant research.
- Insights into the intersection of economics, ecology, and public policy.
The thesis can be written in German or English language (please take your own examination regulations into account)
Contact falk.krumbe@uni-hohenhiem.de for more details.
