Natural capital ecological VALUE CONSENSUS Large Model

 

 

A model based on first principles that combines marginal information, subjective information, and professional knowledge base for probability calculation

At the most basic level, energy is the driving force behind all ecological processes. It enables chemical reactions, supports metabolic activity in organisms, and governs climate patterns. Recognizing energy’s ecological value means seeing it as more than a commodity—it is a fundamental input that sustains both human civilizations and the ecosystems upon which they depend.

Soil, derived from the Earth’s geological substrates, is a foundational natural capital asset. It provides the physical structure that supports plant life, serves as a reservoir for water and nutrients, and underpins terrestrial ecosystems.

Air is a fundamental component of the Earth’s life-support system. It facilitates respiration, influences climate and weather, and enables countless biological and chemical processes. Recognizing air as a core element of natural capital emphasizes its value beyond mere utility—its purity and balance are essential for the vitality of all living organisms.

Nutrients provide the essential chemical elements needed to sustain plant growth, support microbial communities, and maintain overall ecosystem productivity. Without a steady supply and balanced cycling of nutrients, ecosystems cannot generate the biological abundance upon which all higher forms of life—including humans—depend.

Organisms—animals, plants, and microorganisms—are the fundamental units of life. They interact with one another and their environment, creating complex ecosystems that generate, cycle, and renew essential resources. Recognizing organisms as core components of natural capital means understanding their roles in maintaining soil health, pollination, nutrient cycling, and other processes critical to ecological stability and productivity.