Integrating ecosystem services into spatial planning

Ecosystem services are an approach which was developed on the economic benefits of the natural capital. The use of an ecology-based term (ecosystem) together with economy may be acknowledged as a method to protect nature and natural resources in today's world because ecosystem services refer to the benefits of an ecosystem and its economic contributions in the short, medium and long terms. Drawing up spatial plans which allow utilizing natural and cultural resources on the basis of conservation and use depending on the planning approaches based on ecosystem services is a quite important approach for the continuity of ecosystem services and to create sustainable spaces. Firstly, the fundamental concepts about ecosystem and the definitions of ecosystem are described in the study. Secondly, the definition and brief history, classification and functions of ecosystem services (ESs) are provided. Thirdly and finally, evaluations on the concept of spatial planning and on how to integrate ecosystem services into spatial planning studies are made and the results are presented. © Peter Lang AG 2019.