Asthma Example: Ecosystem Services

Next we ask, 'What are humans gaining from the environment?' In other words, 'How might a degraded environment impact human condition?'

In this case, the natural environment might be contributing to air & climate regulation and green spaces might provide recreational opportunities to reduce stress or get some fresh air. Ecosystems also provide natural capital for economic sectors, such as food, fuel, and other natural resources. Hence decision options which reduce asthma, such as a reduction in air pollution, may have unintended benefits in improving availability of natural resources.