Which of the following best describes ecosystem services?

Ecosystem services refer to the various benefits that humans derive from functioning ecosystems. These can include essential services such as pollination of crops by insects, purification of air and water, nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, and soil formation. By maintaining the natural processes and biodiversity within ecosystems, humans are afforded critical support that underpins agriculture, health, and overall quality of life.

The concept emphasizes the interconnectedness between humans and natural systems, illustrating how ecosystem health directly affects human wellbeing. Understanding ecosystem services is crucial for conservation efforts and sustainable management, as it highlights the value of protecting natural environments, not just for their intrinsic worth but also for the practical benefits they provide.