Non‐linearity in ecosystem services: temporal and spatial variability in coastal protection. Issue 1 (1st February 2009)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Koch, Evamaria W; Barbier, Edward B; Silliman, Brian R; Reed, Denise J; Perillo, Gerardo ME; Hacker, Sally D; Granek, Elise F; Primavera, Jurgenne H; Muthiga, Nyawira; Polasky, Stephen; Halpern, Benjamin S; Kennedy, Christopher J; Kappel, Carrie V; Wolanski, Eric
• Is Part Of: Frontiers in ecology and the environment. Volume 7:Issue 1(2009)
• Page Start: 29
• Page End: 37
• Publication Date: 2009-02-01
• Subjects: Ecology -- Periodicals; Environmental sciences -- Periodicals; Ecology; Environmental sciences; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 577.05
• DOI: 10.1890/080126
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1540-9295

Abstract

Abstract : Natural processes tend to vary over time and space, as well as between species. The ecosystem services these natural processes provide are therefore also highly variable. It is often assumed that ecosystem services are provided linearly (unvaryingly, at a steady rate), but natural processes are characterized by thresholds and limiting functions. In this paper, we describe the variability observed in wave attenuation provided by marshes, mangroves, seagrasses, and coral reefs and therefore also in coastal protection. We calculate the economic consequences of assuming coastal protection to be linear. We suggest that, in order to refine ecosystem‐based management practices, it is essential that natural variability and cumulative effects be considered in the valuation of ecosystem services.