Which of the following best describes ecosystem services?

Ecosystem services refer to the various benefits that humans derive from natural ecosystems, which are crucial for maintaining human well-being. This encompasses a wide range of services that can be categorized into provisioning (such as food and water), regulating (such as climate regulation and disease control), cultural (such as recreational and spiritual benefits), and supporting (such as nutrient cycling and soil formation) services.

Option B accurately captures this concept by emphasizing the socio-economic benefits that arise from the functions and processes of ecosystems, highlighting the integral relationship between human societies and natural environments. Understanding ecosystem services is essential for effective natural resource management and conservation efforts, as it underscores the importance of preserving biodiversity and ecosystem health for the future.