The concepts of instrumental value (protecting nature for humans’ sake) and intrinsic value (protecting nature for nature’s sake) are fundamental to environmental policy. This paper — based on a literature review and critical analysis — argues that using these concepts alone overlooks important concerns for the environment. The authors recommend also considering relational values, which derive from the relationships between people and nature. See in http://ec.europa.eu/environment/integration/research/newsalert/pdf/why_protect_nature_relational_values_missing_link_policies_natural_environment_455na1_en.pdf