EPA officials said ecosystem services are the goods and services people obtain from natural systems, with benefits including clean air and water, erosion and flood control, soil enrichment, food, and fiber.

The EPA said its Ecological Research Program in the Office of Research and Development will collaborate with the National Geographic Society to develop better ways to map ecosystem services and communicate such maps to the public. The maps will be designed to also help decision-makers in communities, states, regions and tribes understand the total costs and benefits of proposed land uses.

"These partnerships will help transform the way we respond to environmental issues by illuminating the links between our own actions and the impacts on nature's services," said George Gray, assistant administrator for the EPA's Office of Research and Development. "With this improved understanding, decision-makers can better plan for a healthy, sustainable future."