Assessing ecosystem service sustainability under land-use change and restoration
Abstract
Land-use change and habitat restoration are pivotal factors influencing the sustainability of ecosystem services. Anthropogenic activities, including agriculture, urbanization and industrial expansion, alter biodiversity, soil health and pollination services, often compromising ecosystem resilience. Conversely, ecological restoration offers opportunities to recover degraded ecosystems and enhance service provision. This article synthesizes current research on the impacts of land-use change and restoration on ecosystem service sustainability, emphasizing pollination, carbon sequestration, water regulation and human health outcomes. By integrating insights from biodiversity, microbial ecology and social-ecological systems, we propose a framework for evaluating and managing ecosystems in a manner that balances human needs with ecological integrity. The analysis underscores the importance of monitoring, adaptive management and stakeholder engagement to ensure resilient and sustainable landscapes.