HTML Document What are ecosystem services?

Definition of the term 'ecosystem services' as used in the policy programme

Release date 12/04/2009

What are ecosystem services?

Ecosystem services are the benefits (material and immaterial) that people derive from the functioning of ecosystems. Biodiversity plays an important role in how ecosystems function and in the many services they can provide. Ecosystem services include the water and food cycle, the creation and preservation of soil fertility, protection against invasive species, pollination of plants, climate regulation and management of pests and pollution. Important factors are the availability and the number of species.

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