Ecosystem Services in Patagonia: A Multi-Criteria Approach for an Integrated Assessment

This book explores how societies in Patagonia have benefited from ecosystem services, including provisioning, cultural, regulating, and supporting services. It highlights the challenges of ignoring ecosystem services in economic markets, government policies, and land management practices. The book emphasizes the synergies and trade-offs between conservation and economic development as natural landscapes and seascapes continue to degrade.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 501 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Patagonia, a vast and diverse region spanning approximately 10% in Chile and 90% in Argentina, holds immense natural beauty and ecological significance. It boasts some of the world's largest wilderness areas, including the expansive Patagonian steppe and the vital Patagonian southern temperate forests. These natural landscapes not only provide essential ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, water regulation, and ecotourism value but also play a crucial role in sustaining human well-being. However, we are currently witnessing significant transformations that could have profound implications for these vital ecosystem functions and the well-being of communities in Patagonia.

One of the primary challenges facing Patagonia is the widespread neglect of ecosystem services in economic markets, government policies, and land management practices. Traditionally, economic markets have primarily valued provisioning services, such as forest products and livestock, while overlooking the interconnected roles of regulating services, such as erosion control and climate regulation, supporting services, such as nutrient cycling, and cultural services, including recreation, local identity, and tourism. This imbalance has led to the degradation of natural landscapes and seascapes in Patagonia, as human activities continue to exert pressure on these ecosystems.

To address this challenge, the book delves into the complexities of conservation and economic development in Patagonia. It explores the synergies and trade-offs between preserving natural landscapes and promoting sustainable economic growth. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the full range of ecosystem services and their value to society. By understanding the interdependence between different ecosystem functions and services, we can develop more effective policies and practices that balance conservation and development goals.

Throughout the book, the focus is on ecosystem functions and ecosystem services, as well as on trends in biodiversity and the interactions between natural environments and land-use activities throughout Patagonia. It sheds light on the diverse range of species and habitats that call Patagonia home, including iconic animals such as the guanaco, puma, and Andean condor. It also examines the impact of human activities on biodiversity, including deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and pollution.

Moreover, the book explores the role of local communities in Patagonia in managing and benefiting from ecosystem services. It recognizes the importance of indigenous knowledge and traditional practices in maintaining ecosystem health and sustainability. It highlights the need for inclusive and participatory approaches to land management that involve local communities and ensure their rights and livelihoods are protected.

In conclusion, this book aims to quantify and discuss how societies have directly and indirectly benefited from ecosystem services in Patagonia, not only in terms of provisioning and cultural services, but also regulating and supporting services. By recognizing the value of these services and the interconnectedness of ecosystems, we can develop more sustainable and resilient communities in Patagonia. It is a call to action to protect and preserve these natural treasures for future generations.

Weight: 777g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030691684
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021