Practical application of spatial ecosystem service models to aid decision support

Area of Science:

• Environmental science
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Ecosystem services assessment

Background:

• Ecosystem service (ES) spatial modelling is crucial for integrated assessments supporting environmental sustainability.
• The ESTIMAP (Ecosystem Service Mapping Tool) provides spatially explicit models for policy support, initially at the European scale.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the adaptation of ESTIMAP models to local scales across 10 case studies.
• To evaluate the "precision differential" of models and gather stakeholder opinions on their usefulness.
• To propose a protocol for adapting ESTIMAP to local conditions.

Main Methods:

• Application of 3 ES models from the ESTIMAP collection across 10 diverse case studies at local scales.
• Analysis of model adaptation processes, the "precision differential" (model-generated variation vs. spatial reality), and stakeholder feedback.
• Qualitative assessment of stakeholder perceptions regarding model utility and identified constraints.

Main Results:

• Stakeholders generally found the adapted ESTIMAP approach useful for discussion and communication.
• The "precision differential" was presented as a method to assess model output variation based on adaptation levels.
• Key constraints identified include insufficient spatial data detail and the required technical expertise for model implementation.

Conclusions:

• Adapting ES spatial models like ESTIMAP to local scales is feasible and can enhance communication.
• Addressing data availability and user expertise is critical for improving the practical application of these models in environmental management.
• The "precision differential" offers a valuable metric for understanding model performance and adaptation impacts.