What are Ecosystem Goods and Services?

Ecosystem goods and services are the many benefits that people receive from nature. In the case of marine and coastal ecosystems, these include food from fisheries, protection from storm surges and coastal erosion, clean water, carbon storage, and spaces for tourism and cultural practices. These ecosystems also support livelihoods and help sustain the health of communities and economies across the Pacific. By recognising and valuing these services, policymakers can make better decisions to protect natural resources while supporting sustainable development.

Ecosystem goods and services are the benefits for humans from natural ecosystems. For example, mangroves may provide nursely for fish, crabs, protect coastal areas, etc.

The ecosystem goods and services are categorized into four main types:

Provisioning servicesRegulating servicesCultural servicesSupporting services
  • Seafood e.g. fish, crustaceans
  • Mariculture
  • Aquarium trade
  • Firewood
  • Building Materials e.g. timber
  • Minerals and mining
  • Transport
  • Traditional medicine
  • Ornamental resources
  • Coastal/Shoreline Protection
  • Prevention of saltwater intrusion
  • Storm/flood control
  • Carbon Sequestration
  • Water purification/Waste treatment
  • Sediment trap
  • Biological control
  • Disturbance moderation
  • Nutrient cycling
  • Air quality regulation
  • Climate regulation
  • Water flow regulation
  • Pollination
  • Tourism and leisure
  • Aesthetic values
  • Artistic values
  • Recreation
  • Cultural Identity
  • Spiritual/Religious/Moral values
  • Indigenous value
  • Lifestyle
  • Education and research
  • Cognitive development
  • Nitrogen fixation
  • Oxygen production
  • Photosynthesis
  • Wildlife habitat/ nursery
  • Biodiversity
  • Genetic