An Overview of Ecosystem Services and an Introduction to Classification Systems

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Ramtin Parnak 1
Sepideh Saeidi 2
Hamidreza Kamyab 2
1 Master of Environmental Science, Faculty of Fisheries and Environment, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran.
2 Assistant Professor of Environmental Science, Faculty of Fisheries and Environment, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran.
10.22034/eiat.2025.248436
Abstract
Ecosystem services, as the services that nature provides for human well-being, have attracted much attention in recent years in various scientific and managerial fields. The classification of ecosystem services, as one of the main prerequisites for measuring, mapping, and assessing these services, is vital in different studies. This paper reviews the basic concepts of ecosystem services and introduces different ecosystem service classification systems. In this regard, three international classification systems, including MA, TEEB, and CICES, were reviewed based on a review of related literature. Each of these systems has its own strengths and weaknesses, which will have different applications depending on the purpose of the study. The MA classification, due to its simplicity, is recognized as a primary basis in ecosystem service studies, and TEEB has more focus on the economic valuation of ecosystem services; however, these two systems have limitations in more detailed studies due to problems such as the lack of distinction between intermediate and final services, whereas CICES, by introducing a hierarchical model and a more precise distinction between intermediate and final services, provides a more comprehensive and more precise approach. By introducing different global ecosystem service classification systems, this paper can be helpful in guiding researchers to use the optimal classification system according to the purpose of the study and research needs.
Keywords
Ecosystem Services
MA Classification
TEEB Classification
CICES Classification
Subjects
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