The scientists from The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) estimated the damage caused by industrial activity at $7.3 trillion annually.
According to the report, the highest impact sectors include coal-fired power in Eastern Asia and Northern America ranked 1 and 3. It was calculated that the annual harm exceeds annual revenue, $452 billion against $443 billion. Earning $247 billion, coal-fires power in North America has an impact of $317 billion.
Cattle ranching is ranked second on the list as forests are chopped down for new pastures and the old ones are inarable for decades. Thus, damage done by cattle ranching in South America amounted to $353 billion, while gain is $16.6 billion - i.e. a difference of $336.4 billion.
The main aim of the report was to attract attention to the environment. However, it is unlikely to reveal the current situation. In particular, taking into account the data provided in the survey, the experts estimated the harm inflicted by one tones of greenhouse gases at $106. Meanwhile, established quotas on emissions determine the price of one tone of gas. It costs 4.6 euros or about $6.
