Option use value

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An option use value is the value associated with keeping one's options open[1]. .

In relation to the marine environment, an option use value could be further development of current uses in the future such as provision of food and employment. For example, it is predicted that the demand for building materials from the ocean will increase in the future, so the value of keeping this option open may need to be weighed against the value of other options that could impinge upon this future possibility.

  1. Beaumont, N.J.; Austen, M.C.; Atkins, J.P.; Burdon, D.; Degraer, S.; Dentinho, T.P.; Derous, S.; Holm, P.; Horton, T.; van Ierland, E.; Marboe, A.H.; Starkey, D.J.; Townsend, M.; Zarzycki, T. (2007). Identification, definition and quantification of goods and services provided by marine biodiversity: implications for the ecosystem approach. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 54(3): 253-265