Daily et al. 2009. Ecosystem services in decision making: time to deliver. Front Ecol Environ, 7(1): 21-28.

This paper expresses a vision and a framework for how natural capital and ecosystem services can be incorporated into decision making at all levels. It also points out all the challenges to achieving this, stressing that valuing nature is central to mainstreaming conservation, but is not an end in itself. We are only beginning to develop the scientific basis and policy and finance mechanisms for incorporating natural capital into resource- and land-use decisions on a large scale. The paper proposes a conceptual framework and sketches a strategic plan for delivering on the promise of ecosystem services. Along with the daunting challenges that lie ahead, the paper describes key advances in the science and practice of accounting for natural capital in the decisions of individuals, communities, corporations, and governments.

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