What is an ecosystem service?
Ecosystem services are benefits provided by nature that support human life and well-being. They are central to both the environment and the economy, and their importance has been widely recognized in both scientific research and politics. In this article, we look at what ecosystem services are, how they are categorized, and why they are important.
What are ecosystem services?
Ecosystem services are benefits provided by nature, which can be divided into four main categories: production services, regulatory services, cultural services and support services. These services are essential for human survival and well-being.
Classification of ecosystem services
- Production services: These include material resources provided by nature, such as food, water, wood and medicinal plants. For example, forests provide wood and berries, while seas and lakes provide fish.
- Regulatory services: These services help to regulate environmental conditions. Examples include air and water purification, climate regulation, flood control and pollination. For example, forests and swamps bind carbon dioxide and help combat climate change.
- Cultural services: These services are related to the spiritual and cultural benefits offered by nature, such as recreational opportunities, aesthetic values and mental well-being. For example, national parks offer opportunities for camping and admiring nature.
- Support services: These services are necessary for the production of other ecosystem services. They include processes such as photosynthesis, nutrient cycling and soil formation. For example, connecting plants produces oxygen, which all animals need to breathe.
Why are ecosystem services important?
Ecosystem services are vital for human survival and well-being. They provide the basis for economic activity and quality of life. Without these services, many human activities such as agriculture, fishing and forestry would be impossible or significantly more difficult.
The importance of ecosystem services has been emphasized especially with climate change and the reduction of biodiversity. Maintaining and protecting these services is central to achieving sustainable development. For example, the protection and restoration of forests can help combat climate change and preserve biodiversity.
