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The purpose of this paper is to use the ecosystem service conceptual framework as a basis for understanding the ecological effects of forest land conversion, and as a basis for understanding the economic issues that arise in designing policies to conserve forest ecosystems.
Ecosystems services are generally comprised of two distinct attributes: i) the direct products produced by ecosystems, and ii) the processes that product the products.
Our approach emphasizes an application of the ecosystem services framework that differentiates the effects of forest conversion on both ecosystem products and processes. We argue that such specificity is necessary for conceptually unpacking the various effects of forest conversion on human well-being, and we review the general state of knowledge in this area. Further, out analysis highlights the relevant state of knowledge associated with the economics of policy interventions to enhance ecosystem service provision. We emphasize future research needs that can improve out understanding of policy interventions.