Evaluating natural resource amenities in a human life expectancy production function

Abstract

This study examined the effect of natural resource amenities on human life expectancy. Extending theexisting model of the life expectancy production function, and correcting for spatial dependence, weevaluated the determinants of life expectancy using county level data. Results indicate that after controllingfor socio-demographic and economic factors, medical facilities and risk factors, counties with naturalamenities such as high proportion of land in forests, farmland, rangeland and water bodies, as well as mildclimate such as longer sunlight hours during winter and cooler year around temperature exhibited longer lifeexpectancies at birth. In addition, counties containing state parks and outdoor recreation facilities, and thoselocated near federal wilderness parks were associated with the longer expectancies at birth. Findings fromthis study have several implications for natural resource economics and management, public health, andhuman development. An important message of our findings is that the traditional approach of public healthshould be extended beyond just controlling diseases or treating patients to a more comprehensive approachthat also acknowledges the preservation and utilization of natural resources, environmental amenities, andoutdoor recreation opportunities in maintaining public health, quality of life, and overall humandevelopment.

Citation

Poudyal, Neelam C.; Hodges, Donald G.; Bowker, J.M.; Cordell, H.K. 2009. Evaluating natural resource amenities in a human life expectancy production function. Forest Policy and Economics, 11(4): 253-259.