International IALE Workshop in Salzau, 13-15 May 2008
Ecosystem Services - Solution for Problems or a Problem that needs Solution
Background
To assess goods and services, which are provided to people by nature, the concept of Ecosystem Services has emerged since the 1990s. Typically, they are divided into supporting, regulating, provisioning and cultural services. Due to the comprehensive consideration of various factors, the concept provides a valuable framework to define and analyze linkages and dependencies between natural and human systems. Nevertheless, practical applications, methods for qualification and quantification, models, indicators and the integration of additional system components are needed in order to apply and improve the concept of ecosystem services and to make it a useful tool for responsible management of natural resources.
The conference will bring to together scientists from different disciplines, experts in the field of ecosystem services, environmental managers and administrative board members to communicate, discuss and improve our knowledge about human-environmental relationships in the framework of ecosystem services.
Additional reports to the thematic sessions:
Further General Articels to Ecosystem Services