The Trillion Dollar Everglades: Why Florida’s Economy Depends on Clean Water

RWorld Talk Podcast, May 22, 2026

Did you know the Everglades generates $9.2 billion in annual real estate value alone?

On this episode of RWorld Talk, Dr. Paul Hindsley, Chief Economist at the Everglades Foundation, explains why environmental health and South Florida property values are more connected than most people realize.

Dr. Hindsley breaks down the economics behind the largest ecological restoration project in the world, why the Everglades is considered a trillion-dollar asset, and how clean water infrastructure impacts real estate, tourism, insurance, development, and everyday life across South Florida.

The conversation also highlights the solutions already underway, including major restoration projects like the EAA Reservoir and regional water storage systems designed to improve water quality, reduce harmful discharges, recharge aquifers, strengthen flood protection, and secure South Florida’s future water supply.

Dr. Hindsley also discusses how the Everglades Foundation works with scientists, policymakers, business leaders, Realtors®, and elected officials from both parties to advance long-term restoration efforts that are already creating measurable economic and environmental benefits. Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KlhTfTUjjcM?si=C3NEo3EOlT7M6QYK 

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6vYAaMgnbGiHwdCbw6hMmw?si=H3zya2JvSh24rpXo3RNDhA 

Want to learn more?

You’re in the right place. For more than 30 years, The Everglades Foundation has been the premier organization fighting to restore and protect the precious Everglades ecosystem through science, advocacy, and education.

Join the movement to restore and protect the global treasure that is America’s Everglades. Sign up to learn more. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter). Give a gift of any amount you can to support our mission at EvergladesFoundation.org/Donate.