Marine and coastal ecosystems: delivery of goods and services, through sustainable use and conservation

Abstract Despite the important role of ecosystem services, their study and associated monetary value is limited mostly to terrestrial, estuarine and coastal systems, with few studies undertaken in open marine waters and deep water systems. In addition, human activities are degrading marine ecosystems and the services they provide. To reverse this situation, various legislations have been implemented worldwide. Within this context, conservation activities (i.e. protection, prevention and restoration) are strongly encouraged. Hence, this Chapter: (i) reviews the marine goods and services provided by marine ecosystems; (ii) reviews conservation activities (as a means to maintain and improve goods and services), paying special attention to the effects of restoration on ecosystem services; and (iii) determines the gaps to be covered and the ways to move forward, in relation to conservation of marine goods and services