To better understand realized ecosystem services: An integrated analysis framework of supply, demand, flow and use

Abstract

Realized ecosystem services (ES) are the actual use of ES by societies, which is more directly linked to human well-being than potential ES. However, there is a lack of a general analysis framework to understand how much ES was realized. In this study, we first proposed a Supply-Demand-Flow-Use (SDFU) framework that integrates the supply, demand, flow, and use of ES and differentiates these concepts into different aspects (e.g., potential vs. actual ES demand, export and import flows of supply, etc.). Then, we applied the framework to three examples of ES that can be found in typical urban green parks (i.e., wild berry supply, pollination, and recreation). We showed how the framework could assess the actual use of ES and identify the supply-limited, demand-limited, and supply-demand-balanced types of realized ES. We also discussed the scaling features, temporal dynamics, and spatial characteristics of realized ES, as well as some critical questions for future studies. Although facing challenges, we believe that the applications of the SDFU framework can provide a systematic way to accurately assess the actual use of ES and better inform management and policy-making for sustainable use of nature's benefits. Therefore, we hope that our study will stimulate more research on realized ES and contribute to a deeper understanding of their roles in enhancing human well-being.