Maintenance of essential ecological processes and life support systems

Gas regulation

Role of ecosystems in biogeochemical cycles

Ultraviolet-B protection Maintenance of air quality Influence on climate

Climate regulation

Influence of land cover and biologically mediated processes

Maintenance of temperature, precipitation

Disturbance prevention

Influence of system structure on dampening environmental disturbance

Storm protection Flood dampening

Water regulation

Role of land cover in regulating runoff and river discharge

Drainage and natural irrigation

Medium for transport

Water supply

Filtering, retention, and storage of freshwater (e.g., in aquifers)

Provision of water for consumptive use

Soil retention

Role of vegetation root matrix and soil biota in soil retention

Maintenance of arable land Prevention of damage from erosion and siltation

Soil formation

Weathering of rock, accumulation of organic matter

Maintenance of productivity on arable land

Nutrient regulation

Role of biota in storage and recycling of nutrients

Maintenance of productive ecosystems

Waste treatment

Role of vegetation and biota in removal or breakdown of xenic nutrients and compounds

Pollution control and detoxification