Methodological framework for integrated assessment of ecosystem services in the Czech Republic

EU biodiversity strategy to 2020 requires Member States in 2014 to map and assess the state of ecosystems and their services in its national territory. At the same time, the economic value of these services should be assessed (Goal 2, Action 5, Improve knowledge of ecosystems and their services in the EU). In connection with this commitment we present methodology, which aims to provide a coherent conceptual framework and basic principles for the assessment and valuation of ecosystem services in the Czech Republic. The aim of the methodology is providing basic principles and procedures for assessing and monitoring the status of ecosystem services, especially with regard to the preparation and implementation of the national assessment of ecosystem services. The methodological framework for the assessment of ecosystem services in the Czech Republic supports the Ministry of the Environment as the basis for the development of strategies and policies in the field of biodiversity conservation, especially in relation to Section 79, para. 2 (a) of the Act no. 114/1992 Coll., On Nature and Landscape Conservation, as amended