IB ESS SL 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.

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

[Maximum number: 1]

Protected existing visual attached to Question 6; source ownership requires manual confirmation.

Siberian taiga context
• Taiga forest provides habitat, stores carbon, helps regulate climate and supplies timber.
• Deforestation can affect biodiversity, carbon storage and downstream/global systems.

Outline one ecological service provided by the Siberian taiga.

provides habitat for animals/birds;
(photosynthesis) acts as a carbon sink/absorbs $\mathrm{CO}_{2}$ reducing greenhouse emissions; (photosynthesis) releases $\mathrm{O}_{2}$ necessary for living organisms; filters water / maintains water table; cools/moistens climate through evapotranspiration / source of moisture for precipitation; vegetation prevents soil erosion; increases/maintains biodiversity (increasing/maintaining resilience of biosphere); pollination of plants/crops;

Marking guidance:

Do not accept only 'photosynthesis.
Do not accept provision of goods eg timber/food.
Do not accept cultural, intrinsic or aesthetical benefits eg spiritual/tourism/recreation.
For credit response must focus on ecological service/function.

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7.1.5—Ecosystem services question 1