Why are ecosystem services important for sustainability?

Ecosystem services are fundamental to sustainability because they represent the various benefits that natural environments provide to humanity, which are crucial for maintaining ecological balance and supporting human life. These services include provisioning services like food and water, regulating services such as climate and disease regulation, cultural services that encompass recreational and spiritual benefits, and supporting services like nutrient cycling and pollination.

Understanding and valuing these services is essential for promoting practices that do not deplete natural resources or harm the environment but instead support sustainable living. For instance, healthy ecosystems can enhance food security, support clean air and water, and sustain biodiversity, all of which are necessary for the long-term well-being of both the planet and human populations.

The other options miss the mark as they either present a limited or detrimental view of resource management, such as the idea of unlimited resources or prioritizing economic growth without regard to ecological health. They do not capture the holistic approach needed for sustainability that ecosystem services embody. Hence, the choice highlighting the essential benefits for sustainable living aligns best with the principles of sustainability and the importance of ecosystem services.