What field combines ecology and economics to assess human interaction with the ecosystem?

The correct answer is ecological economics, which is a transdisciplinary field that merges principles from ecology and economics to evaluate and understand the complex relationships between human activities and ecological systems. By focusing on how economic activities impact the environment and vice versa, ecological economics seeks to offer sustainable solutions that address the limitations of traditional economic models, which often overlook environmental costs and the intrinsic value of ecosystems.

Ecological economics emphasizes the importance of natural capital and ecosystem services, promoting the idea that a healthy environment is foundational for economic prosperity. This approach often involves assessing the long-term impacts of economic decisions on natural ecosystems, advocating for policies that ensure both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

The other options, while related in some ways, do not specifically capture the same integration of ecology and economics. Biocentric economics focuses more on placing value on living things rather than dealing directly with the economic systems in place. Environmental analysis often pertains to assessing environmental impacts rather than specifically combining economic frameworks. Sustainable development studies take a broader view that includes social and political aspects but does not inherently merge ecology and economics in the way that ecological economics does.