You have been contacted by a government official, who is looking to spend 5 million USD of overseas aid funding to benefit human welfare by protecting an ecosystem. They wish to use the money to protect and or / restore an area of land (or sea), in collaboration with local communities. They would like your help to decide which ecosystem type (suggestions listed below) would lead to the greatest benefit in terms of human health, equality and wellbeing.
Your task is to write a persuasive letter, arguing for the benefits of your chosen ecosystem. The official will be best convinced by:
An ecosystem services approach, using correct terminology
Clear evidence based (rather than emotional / value based) arguments
Clearly demonstrated correct scientific understanding (e.g. of the carbon cycle)
Specific studies, giving measured estimates of ecosystem services in particular locations (e.g. specific quantities of carbon stored or water purified, for example) - correctly cited
Ecosystems that store large quantities of carbon, since climate change mitigation is a priority.
Solutions that benefit disadvantaged communities (economically disadvantaged or excluded from decision making processes)
Reliable sources, carefully selected and evaluated
Once they have read and considered all your arguments, they will choose to use the funding to enhance protection or restoration of one type of ecosystem.
