Unit 3, AOS1, Topic 2: Ecosystem Services

Define Ecosystem Services

The many and varied benefits to humans provided by the healthy and diverse ecosystems that surround them.

Identify the 4 types of ecosystem services

1. Provisioning

2. Regulating

3. Supporting

4. Cultural

Define Provisioning Services

Ecosystem services in the form of ecosystem outputs of materials, nutrients and energy

Provide 3 examples of Provisioning Services

- Food

- Drinking water

- Raw materials (fibres, wood, metal ores)

- Natural medicines (aspirin, penicillin)

- Natural fuels

Define Regulating Services

A service that regulates ecosystem processes

Provide 3 examples of Regulating Services

- Carbon sequestration/storage by plants

- Vegetation stabilising temperature

- Vegetation anchoring soil/resisting erosion

- Wind walls created by trees

- Natural microclimates & climate stability

- Natural pest regulation

- Pollination

Define Supporting Services

The underlying natural processes that keep an ecosystem functioning

Provide 3 examples of Supporting Services

- Nutrient cycles

- Soil formation

- Pollution breakdown and absorption

- Water cycle

- Rock cycle

Define Cultural Services

The non-material benefits humans derive from interactions with surrounding ecosystems

Provide 3 examples of Cultural Services

- Recreation

- Research

- Education

- Cultural values

- Aesthetic values

- Ethical values

- Spiritual and religious values

- Mental and physical health/wellbeing