Response » Drivers

Humans make decisions in Response to the impacts on ecosystem services or their perceived value.  Responses are actions taken by groups or individuals in society and government to prevent, compensate, ameliorate or adapt to changes in the state of the environment. 

Responses may seek to control Drivers through policies or economic decisions that directly influence sectors, including

Infrastructure management

• Construction codes
• Economic markets – including carbon markets
• Transportation management
• Corporate responses
• Manufacturing & trade regulations

Food & energy policies

• Agricultural & aquacultural policies – including Agricultural Best Management Practices, pest and nutrient management, or conservation buffers
• Fishing & hunting policies – such as catch limitations, consumer preferences for sustainable species
• Energy policies – including carbon credits, emissions testing, alternative energy sources

Health policies

• Waste-treatment policies
• Biomedical research funding
• Patent laws regarding naturally found bio-chemicals

Cultural polices

• Environmental education and outreach – including training, demonstrations, or brochures
• Tourism & recreation policies – including establishing visitor centers or marketing to increase, decrease, or direct tourism activities
• Cultural protections – including religious and historical protections
• Funding & donations

Security & public administration policies

• Actions to improve enforcement of existing laws
• Political pressure by citizens or officials on government
• Collaboration & partnering
• Decision support tools and management planning