A variety of instruments today attempts to address the growing environmental problems. This includes “Payments for Ecosystem Services,” short PES. Under this topic, programs and projects are discussed, which in particular reward farmers and foresters for providing the so-called ecosystem services. The interest in politics and science is great. This book presents 19 examples of successful PES from Germany, the US, and the UK, supplemented by personal interviews with those responsible. It informs about payment mechanisms, financial planning, actors involved, and the respective objectives but also about existing problems and future prospects. In addition, the book is devoted to the theoretical backgrounds of PES and the challenges that must be observed with regard to the development and implementation of the instrument. The book is aimed at a broad readership of nature conservationists, local authority representatives, policymakers, students, and interested individuals. It clarifies where the potential and opportunities, but also the limitations of PES are. Against this background, the authors argue for critical use of the instrument and suggest further expand the potential of PES in combination with other environmental control strategies.
