Humans derive a variety of resources from ecosystems, which can be categorized into several groups:
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Provisioning Services: These are the tangible resources that ecosystems provide.
- Food: Crops, fruits, vegetables, livestock, fish, and wild foods.
- Water: Freshwater from lakes, rivers, and aquifers that supports drinking, agriculture, and sanitation.
- Raw Materials: Timber, fibers (like cotton and wool), fuel (wood, peat), and non-timber forest products (resins, nuts, etc.).
- Medicinal Resources: Plants and animals used for pharmaceuticals and traditional medicine.
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Regulating Services: These services help maintain ecosystem functions and stability.
- Climate Regulation: Ecosystems like forests and oceans sequester carbon dioxide, mitigating climate change.
- Water Regulation: Wetlands and forests regulate water cycles, influencing rainfall patterns and reducing flood risks.
- Pollination: Many crops depend on animals (like bees) for pollination, which is essential for food production.
- Soil Fertility: Healthy ecosystems contribute to nutrient cycling, enhancing soil quality for agriculture.
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Cultural Services: These include non-material benefits that contribute to human well-being.
- Recreational Opportunities: Nature provides spaces for tourism, hiking, and relaxation, contributing to mental and physical health.
- Aesthetic Value: Natural landscapes inspire art, literature, and cultural practices.
- Spiritual and Religious Values: Many cultures have spiritual connections to specific ecosystems and species.
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Supporting Services: These underpin the processes that sustain other ecosystem services.
- Nutrient Cycling: Decomposition and nutrient recycling support plant growth and soil health.
- Biodiversity: Diverse ecosystems are more resilient and productive, contributing to overall ecosystem health and resilience.
These resources highlight the importance of ecosystems in sustaining human life and well-being, emphasizing the need for conservation and sustainable management practices.