What is a likely outcome of the sustainable exploitation of natural ecosystems?

Sustainable exploitation of natural ecosystems refers to the practice of utilizing ecological resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising the health and functionality of the ecosystems for future generations. This approach emphasizes the importance of maintaining biodiversity, protecting habitats, and ensuring that natural resources are not depleted.

When ecosystems are managed sustainably, the outcome typically includes maintaining ecosystem capital, which encompasses the services and resources provided by the environment, such as clean air, water, and biodiversity. By implementing practices that prioritize ecological balance, sustainable methods can prevent overexploitation and degradation of natural resources, thereby supporting the longevity and health of ecosystems.

In contrast, other outcomes like decreasing ecosystem capital or merely converting natural resources into capital do not align with the principles of sustainability. Decreasing capital would indicate a loss of biodiversity and resource depletion, while converting natural resources into capital might overlook the care needed to preserve ecosystem integrity. Increasing capital could suggest enhancement, but this outcome is generally more complex and dependent on various ecological and management factors. Thus, maintaining ecosystem capital captures the essence of what sustainable exploitation aims to achieve, ensuring the resilience and continuity of ecosystem services.