Drawing on the theoretical insights and research experience of some of the world's leading ecological economists, Natural Capital and Human Economic Survival argues that mainstream economics has misled citizens and policy makers by viewing natural capital as only a single, rather unimportant, factor of economic production. In contrast, ecological economics views it as the very foundation of the economy.

Natural Capital and Human Economic Survival explains what natural capital is and does, and how it is threatened. It also proposes some revenue-neutral policy options that could restructure the economic system to encourage investment in natural capital. Such policies would work, in part, by properly valuing natural capital resources and services.

By helping to "get the prices right," within the context of sustainable ecosystems and a fair distribution of resources they would promote true economic efficiency, equity and sustainability.