What is Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services?
Historical Background
The concept of biodiversity gained prominence in the 1980s, although the importance of natural resources was recognized much earlier. The term 'biodiversity' itself was popularized by E.O. Wilson.
The 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) marked a turning point, establishing a global commitment to conserve biodiversity, sustainably use its components, and fairly share the benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources. The concept of ecosystem services gained traction in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA) in 2005 providing a comprehensive evaluation of the state of ecosystems and their services worldwide. This assessment highlighted the link between biodiversity loss and the decline in ecosystem services, emphasizing the need for integrated conservation and sustainable management strategies.
Since then, numerous studies and initiatives have focused on valuing ecosystem services and incorporating them into decision-making processes.
Key Points
12 points- 1.
Biodiversity encompasses genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity. Genetic diversity is the variation within a species. Species diversity is the variety of species in a habitat. Ecosystem diversity is the variety of ecosystems in a region.
- 2.
Ecosystem services are categorized into four main types: provisioning services (e.g., food, water, timber), regulating services (e.g., climate regulation, water purification), supporting services (e.g., nutrient cycling, soil formation), and cultural services (e.g., recreation, aesthetic value).
- 3.
Key stakeholders include governments, local communities, NGOs, researchers, and businesses. Governments are responsible for policy and regulation. Local communities often depend directly on ecosystem services. NGOs advocate for conservation. Researchers provide scientific knowledge. Businesses can impact biodiversity through their operations.
- 4.
Approximately 60% of the world's ecosystems are degraded or being used unsustainably, according to the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment.
Visual Insights
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services: Interconnections
Mind map illustrating the interconnections between biodiversity, ecosystem services, and human well-being.
Biodiversity & Ecosystem Services
- ●Types of Biodiversity
- ●Ecosystem Services
- ●Threats to Biodiversity
- ●Conservation Strategies
Recent Real-World Examples
1 examplesIllustrated in 1 real-world examples from Feb 2026 to Feb 2026
Source Topic
Asha, Cheetah at Kuno National Park, Gives Birth to 5 Cubs
Environment & EcologyUPSC Relevance
Frequently Asked Questions
61. What is biodiversity and what are ecosystem services? How are they linked?
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, encompassing genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity. Ecosystem services are the benefits humans derive from ecosystems, categorized as provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural services. Biodiversity is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems, which in turn provide these essential services. The loss of biodiversity can disrupt ecosystem functions and reduce the provision of these services.
Exam Tip
Remember the four categories of ecosystem services: provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural. Think of examples for each to better understand the concept.
2. What are the key provisions related to biodiversity as per the concept?
The key provisions related to biodiversity as per the concept are: * Biodiversity encompasses genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity. * Ecosystem services are categorized into provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural services. * Key stakeholders include governments, local communities, NGOs, researchers, and businesses. * Approximately 60% of the world's ecosystems are degraded or used unsustainably. * Biodiversity and ecosystem services are closely linked to climate change.
