Ecosystem Services: A Comprehensive Guide
Ecosystem Services are crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect in the realm of project management. Let’s break it down:
What is it?
Ecosystem services refer to the array of benefits that nature provides to humans such as clean air, water, food and various materials. This concept covers the tangible and intangible contributions of the ecosystem to human well-being.
Why is it important?
Understanding and acknowledging ecosystem services is vital for effective and sustainable project management. It allows project managers to evaluate the potential impacts (positive or negative) their project might exert on the environment.
How it works?
Ecosystems services work through complex interactions within the ecosystem, usually categorized into four types: Provisioning, Regulating, Cultural and Supporting services.
Exam Tips: Answering questions on Ecosystem Services
1. Understand the types of Ecosystem Services: Get acquainted with the specific ecosystem services - Provisioning, Regulating, Cultural and Supporting services.
2. Make linkage to project impacts: Show understanding of how project activities might affect these services.
3. Appreciate the role ecosystems play: Acknowledge the integration and interdependencies within the ecosystem services.
4. Consider sustainability: Express awareness of the need to balance environmental, social and economic considerations in project management.
Remember, in the exam, thorough comprehension and the ability to apply learned knowledge to different scenarios is key.