IB ESS HL 7.1.5 Ecosystem services Question Bank
Practise IB ESS SL/HL 7.1.5 by applying ecosystem services concepts to exam-style environmental systems questions.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2026
- Course
- ESS HL
- Level
- HL
Exam points
- identify the relevant environmental system, process or evidence
- apply the correct ESS concept and explain the causal relationship
- evaluate the outcome using ecological, social or management evidence
7.1.5—Ecosystem services question 1
[Maximum number: 1]
Figure:Fact file on fynbos
Fynbos plants have small, fine leaves, including proteas, rooibos, heather and cape reeds. They thrive in nutrient-poor soils and seasonally hot and dry conditions. Fynbos covers over 80% of the Cape Floristic Region, including mountains, lowland valleys and coastal plains. It is threatened by agriculture, plantation forestry, urbanization, climate change and invasive species such as pine, eucalyptus, acacia and hakea. Invasive species can increase fire risk, use more water than indigenous species, alter soil nutrient content, and can be controlled by physical removal, herbicides, biological control or controlled fires.
State one service provided by the natural capital within the Cape Floristic Region.
absorbs carbon dioxide / carbon sink / production of oxygen / climate regulation / water storage / filters water / removes/filters out air pollutants / waste assimilation / flood defenses / protection from soil erosion / provides pollinators/pollination /provide areas for recreation (aesthetic value)/spiritual/cultural activity (eg plants for medicinal use) / provides a habitat (food/water);
Note: Do not accept tangible goods/products that generate profit e.g. '(sold as) tea / timber / tourism'.
If tea is identified, the response must indicate it is used as a food and not a commercial good e.g. do not accept only '(Roobios) tea'.
Marking guidance:
Do not accept only 'air purification / filters pollutants'.
Accept other reasonable responses.
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