What are ecosystem services?

Ecosystem services refer to the multitude of benefits that ecosystems provide to humans and the environment. This includes essential functions such as the regulation of air and water quality, pollination of crops, nutrient cycling, and the provision of habitat for wildlife. The example of clean air and water highlights how natural processes contribute to human health and well-being.

The understanding of ecosystem services encompasses a broad spectrum of benefits beyond just specific activities or economic sectors. For instance, while tourism can be influenced by natural environments, it does not encompass the full scope of what ecosystem services provide. Contributions from urban environments may offer localized benefits, but they are not the sole source of ecosystem services. Lastly, while fostering economic development is an important consideration, ecosystem services play a foundational role in supporting economies through natural resource availability and maintaining the health of the planet, rather than being defined solely by their economic contributions.