Critical Discussion of the Concept of Ecosystem Services at São Paulo Macrometropolis

The concept of ecosystem services is an appropriate instrument for thinking about an economic, planning, and management approach considering planetary limits. The delimitation of this concept, linked to recognizing its value and using adequate tools to support decision-making, can provide essential subsidies for public policies aimed at better environmental management. In this way, this chapter traces a historical review of the concept of ecosystem services. It points out what this concept can contribute to discussions on the environmental governance of the São Paulo Macrometropolis in the face of climate change. In the literature on the historical landmarks of the trajectory of conceptualization of ecosystem services, it is observed that there is a straightforward search to emphasize the nature of the ecosystem service as being an ecological phenomenon and not conditioning human activities. There is also a need for this recognition to improve the management of these same services, aiming at their continuity or even expanding the understanding of the dependence of human activities on ecosystem services. The broader definition of ecosystem service allows for a differentiated analysis, assessing the contribution to human well-being and discussing nature's services. On the other hand, environmental services, within this understanding, would be those that involve anthropic action aimed at reducing an environmental impact or maintaining the supply of ecosystem services.