Achieving sustainable development in Africa through inclusive green growth: the role of ecosystem goods and services

Abstract

Ecosystem goods and services are the benefits that people obtain from both natural and modified ecosystems. From disaster risk reduction to energy generation to water security, Africa has ample opportunity to seize the benefits of ecosystems goods and services for inclusive green growth. Harnessing ecosystems services, therefore, would spur inclusive green growth and lead to sustainable development. In order to realize the vast potential for ecosystem goods and services-based inclusive growth, countries will have to address the challenges confronting them and seize a large number of existing and emerging opportunities.