ABSTRACT
The prerequisite for a sustainable economy is a considerable reduction in the use of raw materials, fossil fuels, water and land; similarly, to avoid endangering ecosystems there is a need to move away from high output levels of harmful substances and waste. Eco-services consist of a variety of innovative approaches to economy and society and are aimed at reducing the environmental strain associated with certain products. The concepts, which are rather heterogeneous, are based on the common idea that the distribution of ownership of goods has considerable influence on the volume and speed of the material flow in an economy and therefore is of importance in ecological terms. A number of ecological advantages can arise from the sale of services. For instance, it encourages interest in the re-use and recyclability of products. The replacement of energy and materials with services provides other possible benefits as, for instance, with the use of energy services aimed at energy efficiency.
