Exploring the possible setup and uses of natural capital accounts for the Dutch North Sea area

摘要: Natural capital accounting (ecosystem accounting) is an approach to systematically measure and monitor ecosystem services and ecosystem condition over time for decision making and planning. In this study we have examined whether and how natural capital accounts could be compiled and implemented for the Dutch continental shelf (DCS).Marine and coastal ecosystems provide a range of ‘ecosystem services’, from fisheries to carbon storage and flood protection. Yet pollution, overfishing, climate change and habitat destruction cause adverse effects and may lead to degrading several of the ecosystems at the DCS, effecting the wealth of the country and sustainability of cities and communities, water quality and livelihoods. Natural capital accounting (NCA) can be used to monitor and analyse the locations, magnitude in area and condition of ecosystem and the benefits that are derived from ecosystems in a coherent and consistent way.