PrintChapter 6 of the text provides a simple, but reasonably complete overview of the characteristics of aquatic ecosystems, how they function, and their relationship to ecosystem services.
Required Reading
Holden (2020) – Brown et al., Chapter 6 – Aquatic ecosystems (p.195-232)
The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment of 2005 was a seminal synopsis of the values and services of waters from which we all benefit. Although this set of assessments was begun before the turn of the millennium, this part took five more years to complete. Still, it forms the basis of how many free services are provided to us from healthy aquatic ecosystems.
Required Reading
Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (2005). Ecosystems and human well-being: Wetlands and water. Synthesis. World Resources Institute, Washington, DC. 80pp.
Registered students can access a copy of this reading under Lesson 6 in Canvas.
The following reference describes a novel and thorough approach to considering and measuring the economic value of wetlands, broadly defined, and other waters. It provides the next steps in thinking about valuing ecosystem services. You can use it as one of the required references for Assignment 6.2. I heartily recommend you review the document, but it will not be included as part of any evaluation for this course.
Optional Reading
Russi D., ten Brink P., Farmer A., Badura T., Coates D., Förster J., Kumar R. and Davidson N. (2013). The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity for Water and Wetlands. IEEP, London and Brussels; Ramsar Secretariat, Gland.
Registered students can access a copy of the reading under Lesson 6 in Canvas.