We develop a novel theoretical framework for studying ecosystems in which interacting state variables which are affected by management decisions diffuse in space. We identify (i) mechanisms creating spatial patterns when economic agents maximize profit at each site by ignoring the impact of their actions on other sites and (ii) a diffusion induced externality. Pattern formation mechanisms and externalities create a divergence in the spatiotemporal structures emerging under private or social objectives We develop optimal regulation which internalize the spatiotemporal externalities. Our theory is applied to the management and regulation of a semi-arid system. Supporting numerical simulations are also presented.
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Paper provided by University Library of Munich, Germany in its series MPRA Paper with number
9105.
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Klaus Desmet & Esteban Rossi-Hansberg, 2009.
"Spatial Development,"
NBER Working Papers
15349, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
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