Topic Introduction

Identifying the values, interactions, and tradeoffs between ecosystem services provides policymakers an idea how to propose strategic programs that could positively affect the well-being of the local community. This topic explains the various aspects of human well-being that are improved with the help of forest ecosystem services.

By the end of this topic, you should be able to:

• Identify the five elements that constitutes the well-being of local communities; and
• Explain how changes in ecosystems affect human well-being.

Topic Readings

Required Readings

• Bhatta, L.D., Van Oort, B.E.H., Stork, N.E., and Baral, H. (2015). Ecosystem services and livelihoods in a changing climate: Understanding local adaptations in the Upper Koshi, Nepal. International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management Links to an external site. 11 (2): 145-155.
• Module 2 Notebook Download Module 2 Notebook

Optional Readings

• Millenium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005. Ecosystems and Human Well-being: Synthesis.  Island Press, Washington, DC.
• Carabine, E., Venton, C.C., Tanner, T., and Bahadur, A. (2015). The contribution of ecosystem services to human resilience: A rapid review. USA: Overseas Development Institute.

Fundamental Concepts

• Basic Needs
• Health
• Social Relations
• Security
• Freedom of Choice

Video Lectures

Lesson 2.4 - 8 minutes

Note: To view Interactive Video Lesson 2.4 (SCORM), use Firefox to access and open it.

Self-test Quiz

After viewing video lectures, take 10 minutes now to take the self-check quiz at Online Self-test 2.4.

Activities & Assignments

Online Discussions

Online Forum 2.4 -  Contribution of Ecosystem Services to Well-being and Livelihood

Instructions:

1. During the first three days of the week, comment on at least two of your peers’ new post especially on 3.C.
2. During days 4-7, after getting comments from your peers, improve your answers or respond to their comments on 3.C and the things that you have learned on this topic.
3. In your new post, which includes the revised answers to 3.A, 3.B, and 3.C, add your answer to question 3.D.

Topic Summary

This topic gave an understanding of how changes in forest ecosystem services affect human well-being. If forest ecosystems are degraded, negative consequences would be experienced by the local community. However, if ecosystem services are valued and tradeoffs are identified, these would be helpful to local communities to address their basic needs, security, social relations, health, and freedom of choice.

Topic Self-review (Optional)

Use the following self-reflection questions as study guide to conduct your self-review for the topic.

1. In my own community, how are the changes happening in forest ecosystem services affecting human well-being?
2. Are the tradeoffs and values known to the community and its leaders?  If the answer is yes, how are they made known to them?  If the answer is no, how can I help in making it known to them?