Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity

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Excellence in environmental innovation

Ecosystem services and biodiversity are the benefits we receive from nature. They include climate regulation; flood control and water purification; habitat for wildlife; food, fibre and fuel; and the spiritual and recreational benefits of nature. 

Alberta Innovates is part of the Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity initiative, a collection of innovative projects and investments designed to build the capacity to implement ecosystem service and biodiversity markets in Alberta.

Our impact

Over the last six years we’ve invested $11.5 million into the Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity Initiative, which in turn was able to leverage these dollars into $33.7 million for 23 projects. 

These 23 projects are aligned with the building blocks outlined in the Ecosystem Services Roadmap. Significant investments have been made to develop the building blocks, including 10 key initiatives that are building capacity in these areas. An additional 13 projects have been funded to test, apply and advance the tools, systems and processes developed.

We focus on community-based pilots and demonstrations to test and validate concepts, further engage stakeholders and establish a governance system for the market.

A graphic illustrating the number of active projects and number of awarded certificates Ecosystem Services has ongoing.

Resources

The Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity Network

A key outcome is the development of the Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity Network (ESBN). Established in 2015, The ESBN is a multidisciplinary group of experts who are building the knowledge and capacity required to implement an ecosystem services and biodiversity approach in Alberta.

The ESBN engages a broad range of stakeholders from many sectors and disciplines, to collaborate in research and management around ecosystem services.

To learn more, visit the Ecosystems Services and Biodiversity Network website.

Bio-Resource Information Management System

The Bio-Resource Information Management System (BRIMS) is a system that collates data and information on the biomass, carbon, water and wetland resources of Alberta, which will help to inform integrated management decisions throughout the province.

Learn more

Creating Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity Markets in Alberta

Download this booklet showcases to read about the work that has been completed through the Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity Network to date.

Measuring Ecosystem Services

This short video describes what ecosystem services are, why they are important to society and how building big data sets can advance Alberta’s green economy.