ABSTRACT
The ecosystem service (ES) concept is a major focus for discussion within biodiversity policy. A major challenge and opportunity for the ecosystem service concept is that of its integration beyond biodiversity policy into other environmental, sectoral and horizontal policies. The uptake and integration of the ecosystem service concept into different policy areas can take place through a range of processes, requiring a range of institutional roles and tools. Across all policy sectors and all levels of governance, there can be both opportunities and risks associated with the use of the ecosystem services concept – and particularly any associated monetary estimates – in supporting the policy- and decision-making processes. Progress with the mainstreaming of ES in sectoral and horizontal policies varies across policy areas and governance levels. In general, mainstreaming and integration needs to take place at three different levels – conceptual integration, operational integration and, finally, integration through implementation.
