Ecosystems are vital for life on Earth as they provide a range of goods and services that support human well-being and biodiversity. Some of the major services include:

• Provision of food, fuel, and fibre.
• Provision of shelter and building materials.
• Purification of air and water.
• Detoxification and decomposition of wastes.
• Stabilization and moderation of the Earth’s climate.
• Moderation of floods, droughts, temperature extremes, and wind forces.
• Generation and renewal of soil fertility, including nutrient cycling.
• Pollination of plants, including many crops, and natural control of pests and diseases.
• Maintenance of genetic resources, important for crop varieties, livestock breeds, medicines, and other products.
• Providing cultural, spiritual, and aesthetic benefits.