Ecosystem services are essential to our well-being. Yet we often take them for granted. By perceiving and valuing ecosystem services, we can affect our future well-being and quality of life. Politicians, public authorities, municipalities, businesses, organisations, and individuals can thereby make more conscious and wise decisions. For example, the value of ecosystem services should be included in planning and decisions about land and water use.

This guide does not provide answers to all questions on valuation of ecosystem services, but it will guide you in finding the answers in your work. The content has a practical orientation, with step-by-step instructions and examples. It is intended for people who work in municipalities, business, public authorities, county administrative boards, or interest groups. The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency hopes that this guide will facilitate and inspire more people to begin valuing ecosystem services.