Boundary of ecosystem services: Differentiating between ecosystem services and geosystem services is needed

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Ecology
• Geology

Background:

• Geosystem services (GSs) and ecosystem services (ESs) represent nature's contributions to human well-being.
• The relationship between GSs and ESs, particularly whether GSs are a subset of ESs, is debated.
• Definitions of ESs often focus on benefits derived from ecological functions, processes, or characteristics, influenced by biotic elements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the relationship and differentiation between geosystem services and ecosystem services.
• To address criticisms regarding the boundary between ESs and other nature-based benefits.
• To establish a framework for classifying nature's benefits that facilitates communication and management.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis and critical review of existing definitions and boundaries for GSs and ESs.
• Examination of the roles of biotic and abiotic elements in the provision of natural benefits.
• Case examples illustrating the integration of GSs into ESs based on specific criteria.

Main Results:

• GSs are not necessarily a subset of ESs; the classification depends on the definition of ESs.
• ESs are defined as benefits from ecological functions influenced by biotic elements, though abiotic factors also play a role.
• Certain GSs, like flood protection from geological structures, can be classified as ESs if influenced by biotic elements.

Conclusions:

• Differentiating GSs and ESs does not negate their interconnectedness or undervalue nature.
• Clear classification aids communication, management, education, research, and policy-making regarding nature's benefits.
• Highlighting the diversity of nature's contributions is crucial for effective environmental stewardship.