What is it about?
The review explores gaps in knowledge regarding ecosystem service mapping and its implications for decision-making, conservation planning, and public policy. It highlights the thematic biases in existing ecosystem service maps and identifies key challenges for research in this area.
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Why is it important?
We emphasize the significance of ecosystem service mapping for conservation and decision-making. We point out that while there have been numerous scientific articles on ecosystem service mapping, there are thematic biases in the services that have been studied. Some services, particularly related to provisioning, regulation, and cultural aspects, have received more attention, while others have been overlooked. This bias can impact conservation efforts and policymaking by neglecting important aspects of ecosystem services that contribute to biodiversity conservation and human well-being.
Perspectives
Our perspectives include: Understanding the spatial expression of ecosystem services in the landscape and their relationship with functional traits, biotic interactions, and ecosystem processes. Considering ecosystem services in decision-making at local and regional scales, especially regarding human impacts on natural capital. Integrating ecosystem services into government policies that guide land-use planning. Recognizing the spatial effects of global change on human well-being.
PhD Nicolas Urbina-Cardona
Pontificia Universidad Javeriana
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Uncovering thematic biases in ecosystem services mapping: Knowledge shortfalls and challenges for use in conservation, Biological Conservation, July 2023, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.biocon.2023.110086.
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