MAIA e-learning

E-learning tool Ecosystem Accounting

Introduction to SEEA Ecosystem Accounting

Ecosystem accounts consist of 5 different core accounts, and 4 thematic accounts. These accounts all comprise: (i) spatial data, represented in maps; and (ii) accounting tables. The specific format of the accounting tables differs somewhat for each account. Note that sometimes the accounting tables are seen as the ‘accounts’ and in another interpretation the maps with information that is synthesized in the accounting tables are an integral part of the accounts.

In this E-learning tool we follow an interpretation of the SEEA EA that implies that the maps are part of the accounts.
It is noteworthy that the maps are of particular relevance to planning and decision making: they comprise much more information than the accounting tables, and are easier to apply in environmental and resource management and decision making (whereas the tables are of particular relevance, among others, for monitoring the state of ecosystems and their use).

The core accounts are:	The thematic accounts are:
The Extent Account The Condition Account The physical ecosystem services supply and use account The monetary ecosystem services supply and use account Ecosystem asset account	The Biodiversity account The Carbon account The Ocean account The Urban ecosystem account

Fig. The core Ecosystem accounts