Training for the assessment of ES provided by pastoral systems in the Mediterranean basin

The training session included a brief introduction of the participants and their respective case studies (climate area, rangeland type, and characteristics of their pastoral systems) on which to apply the ecosystem services approach. This was followed by teaching and instructional sessions covering the main vegetation types in the Mediterranean basin, with a focus on central Italy, and the ecological succession processes associated with pastoral activities. The principle behind ecosystem services was explained, along with the main classification systems in use, the various ecosystem service indices, and the necessary literature research. The second part of the course involved a practical session where students were guided step-by-step in searching for indices, performing calculations, and producing ecosystem services “basket” charts applicable to various contexts, management types, and vegetation types, under different scenarios.