Dynamics of ecosystem services in forest ecosystems

The concept of ecosystem services (ES) – the benefits provided by ecosystems to people – has become the subject of major international scientific and policy focus. In the UK, results from the National Ecosystem Assessment have highlighted the exceptionally important role of forest ecosystems in provision of multiple ES. However, forests are becoming the focus of increasing concern, because of the combined effects of climate change, spread of novel pests and diseases, and widespread increases in browsing pressure. Such factors could potentially interact to fundamentally alter forest ecosystems, their associated biodiversity and the provision of ES, which could impact negatively on human livelihoods and the national economy. This project will therefore examine the dynamics of ES in selected forest landscapes, through the use of spatially explicit modelling approaches supported by appropriate field and laboratory research.