Abstract
An Earth System approach to defining the safe and just space for biosphere requires synthetic measures of functional integrity in relation to Nature’s local and global scale Contributions to People (NCP). We estimate the minimum level of functional integrity needed to secure multiple critical ecosystem functions and services, including pollination, pest and disease control, water quality regulation, soil protection and recreation in human-modified landscapes. We find that at least 20-25% of relatively diverse semi-natural habitat with native species in each km2 of land area is needed to maintain a minimum level of multiple NCP. Exact area, quality and configuration required is dependent on local context, and may differ based on landscape types and for individual NCP. More than 60% of human-modified lands have less than 20% semi-natural habitat per km2, and thus require immediate attention to regenerate functional integrity. Regenerating ecosystem functions in areas with low functional integrity by including at least 20-25% semi-natural habitat of sufficient quality per km2 will secure ecological functioning in those landscapes consistent with a safe and just space for people and planet.
Competing Interest Statement
The authors have declared no competing interest.