Resource

Biodiversity and ecosystem services: the foundation for human health and well-being - URBES Factsheet #2

Author/Contact:

Thomas Elmqvist
Theme leader, Urban social-ecological systems and globalization
Stockholm Resilience Centre

thomas.elmqvist@su.se

Publication date:

Resource description:

Human beings are an integral and inseparable part of the natural world. Our existence and health ultimately depends on the integrity and functioning of ecosystems. This URBES factsheet presents research findings and policy recommendations which underline the value of biodiversity and ecosystem services in building and protecting physical and mental health. Within and around cities, green infrastructure is the network of green spaces and other environmental features, which sustains biodiversity and brings benefits to human health and well-being.

Requirements:

  • None

Advantages:

  • Address significant scientific knowledge gaps on the role of urban biodiversity and ecosystem services for human well-being
  • Contribute to building capacity of European cities to adapt to climate change and reduce ecological footprints
  • Create innovative ways of integrating monetary and non-monetary valuation techniques in urban landscapes by pioneering the development of The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB)-approach

Constraints:

  • None

Licence:

  • Free, no licence

Development stage:

  • Full, working product