'Our Uncommon Heritage is comprehensive in its range and incisive in its treatment. In his analysis of changes in biodiversity, the author straddles, with expert understanding, different sciences. He then excels in employing and extending the metaphors of economics to capture the concerns of natural scientists. Arguing for integrated models and analysis that can enable realistic social policy experiments, the volume drives home the compelling need for forward looking decision making in the interest of conservation of humanity's 'uncommon heritage' for future generations.' Kanchan Chopra, former Director and Professor, Institute of Economic Growth, University of Delhi

'Charles Perrings has been deeply involved for decades in the complex issues of international biological diversity science, assessments and policy. He draws upon this experience to craft a thoughtful and wise roadmap for a more positive future for the natural resources that underpin human well-being.' Harold Mooney, Stanford University

'This book does a great service to the effort to stop Biodiversity being seen only as an assemblage of useful or charismatic species, but instead as ecosystems that house the planet's biological wealth and provide us with a score of indispensable environmental services. It also supports the idea that private benefits cannot have precedence over social well-being in the use of our Natural Capital. This is essential reading for anyone seriously interested in entering or exploring in more detail the field of sustainability in the broader sense.' José Sarukhán, Emeritus Professor, Instituto de Ecología, UNAM and National Coordinator, CONABIO