Ecosystem services

What are ecosystem services?

Ecosystem services are the goods and services provided by ecosystems that benefit, sustain and support the well-being of people:

Food Water for consumption Building and fibre Fuel Genetic resources Biochemicals, medicines & pharmaceuticals Ornamental resources Transport infrastructure Air quality Habitable climate Water quality Arable land Buffering against extremes Pollination

Reduced pests & diseases Productive soils Noise abatement Iconic species Cultural diversity Spiritual & religious values Knowledge systems Inspiration Aesthetic values Effect on social interactions Sense of place Iconic landscapes Recreational opportunities Therapeutic landscapes

Ensure vegetation into the future

To ensure ecosystems continue to benefit people, the underlying ecosystem functions need to be protected. For example, tracts of vegetation improve air quality and local climate; provide building materials and fuel, and buffer against extreme weather events.

To ensure people continue to receive the numerous goods and services offered by tracts of vegetation, we need to ensure vegetation is retained into the future.

Localised mapping

Council and SEQ Catchments  worked together throughout 2011 to produce localised mapping specific to the Moreton Bay region. The maps identify areas that provide high levels of ecosystem services. Council staff will now use this mapping to plan and manage land use sustainably.

• Map of high ecosystem function areas  [PDF 3.4MB]
• Report - Mapping Ecosystem Functions in the region  [PDF 800KB]

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