Description: The ecosystem services framework is a conceptual approach that allows understanding and classifying the benefits that ecosystems provide to humans. These services are generally divided into four categories: provisioning services, which include resources like food and water; regulating services, which encompass climate regulation and air quality; cultural services, which refer to non-material benefits such as recreation and aesthetics; and supporting services, which are fundamental for ecosystem functioning, such as soil formation and nutrient cycling. This framework helps visualize the interconnection between nature and human well-being, highlighting the importance of conserving ecosystems to maintain these services. Furthermore, it promotes a more holistic understanding of nature, integrating economic, social, and environmental aspects into decision-making. Its relevance lies in enabling policymakers and society at large to recognize the value of ecosystems and encourage sustainable practices that ensure the continuous provision of these vital services.
History: The concept of ecosystem services began to gain attention in the 1970s, but it was in 1997 that it became popular with the publication of the report ‘Ecosystem Services: Benefits Supplied to Human Societies by Natural Ecosystems’ by the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment. This report highlighted the importance of ecosystem services for human well-being and the need for their conservation. Since then, the framework has evolved and been integrated into various environmental and sustainable development policies globally.
Uses: The ecosystem services framework is used in environmental planning and management, helping policymakers assess the impact of decisions on ecosystems. It is also applied in environmental economics to value the services that ecosystems provide, facilitating informed decision-making regarding conservation and sustainable resource use. Additionally, it is used in education and public awareness to promote the importance of ecosystems.
Examples: A practical example of the use of the ecosystem services framework is the payment for ecosystem services program in Costa Rica, which incentivizes landowners to conserve forests in exchange for economic compensation. Another case is the assessment of pollination services in agriculture, where the value that pollinators contribute to crop production is quantified.
