Iker Etxano

Iker Etxano is a Professor at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), affiliated with the Department of Applied Economics I within the Faculty of Social Sciences and Communication. His research focuses on sustainability transitions, ecological economics, public policies, and multi-criteria analysis. He holds a Licenciado in Economics, an MSc from Newcastle University (2006), and a PhD in Development Studies from UPV/EHU (2013). He also teaches in postgraduate programs on sustainability and ecological economics.

His work includes evaluating environmental policies, particularly protected natural spaces, and developing methodologies for sustainability assessment. He is a member of the EKOPOL research group and associated with Hegoa (Institute for Development and International Cooperation Studies). Notable projects include Pensamientos críticos sobre el desarrollo (2018) and studies on the environmental and social footprint of UPV/EHU.

Key research themes include integrating capabilities theory, ecosystem services, and strong sustainability frameworks. His contributions address conflicts in rural planning, payment for ecosystem services, and the revival of traditional commons governance. He has published extensively on sustainability science, policy analysis, and participatory approaches to conservation.