EcoSystems

An ecosystem is a dynamic complex of plant, animal and microorganism communities and the non-living environment, interacting as a functional unit.

People benefit largely from ecosystem services and usually perceive the condition of an ecosystem in relation to its ability to provide the expected services. These include provisioning services such as food and water; regulating services suc as flood and disease control; cultural services such as spiritual, recreational and cultural services; and supporting services, such as nutrient cycling.

The assessment of the conditions of ecosystems, the provisions of services and their relation to human well-being is essential to identify highly valued services and develop approaches to maintain ecosystems sustainably. DEWA is applying a range of assessment methodologies to help undertanding the status of key ecosystems.