The interaction of living things depending on each other and relating to their environments has immense benefits in terms of the health and spiritual well-being of humans, the health of members of the ecosystem themselves, as well as the environment. Living things do not exist in isolation. They depend on abiotic factors too. The benefit of ecosystems, therefore, is not exclusive to living things. So, what is the role of ecosystems?
A. Supportive
Ecosystems provide a supporting role for all its members. In this role, living members serve as food for others, and their produce and residue serve as nutrients to soils and gases to the atmosphere. This makes soil nutrient cycle, carbon and oxygen cycle and water cycle possible and also for living things to continue procreation.
B. Provision
Ecosystems are also the source of all foods, store of all energy, fibre, genetic resources, medicines, fresh water and minerals. All natural resources that humans depend on, has its source from ecosystems.
C. Regulation
The function of a healthy ecosystem ensures that there is balance and regulation in the climate, regulation in fresh water, soils, rocks, and atmosphere. They function to regulate animals and plant diseases and ensure that biodiversity is preserved.
D. Spiritual Value
Perhaps not exclusive to humans, ecosystems provide humans with deeper spiritual enrichment and cognitive development. The wonder and breathtaking properties of healthy ecosystems have recreational effects, as well as aesthetic value to us. From land the remotest places on earth to the deepest places in the oceans, there are millions of life forms that function in harmony and provide humans with meditative and healing benefits.