Natural capital is separated into different ecosystem types and ecosystem components (the latter were previously called natural capital assets). The 15 ecosystem types are based on the biomes included in the IUCN Global Ecosystem Typology 2.0. Together with eight ecosystem components, listed below, the ecosystem types provide more detail on the biodiversity-related elements of natural capital. The ecosystem components are based on the natural capital asset classification developed by UNEP-WCMC, which draws on a previously developed scientific paper published in the journal Ecosystem Services.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere is the mass of air surrounding the earth. Its components (such as oxygen) and its processes (such as temperature regulation) support a number of essential ecosystem services.
Land geomorphology
Land geomorphology describes the structure of the land, such as mountains and valleys. Land geomorphology supports the provision of regulatory services, like erosion control.
Minerals
Minerals are naturally occuring compounds not produced by living beings. They can be metallic or non-metallic and play an important supporting role in the provision of services like soil quality.
Ocean geomorphology
Ocean geomorphology describes the structure of the marine environment such as shelfs and slopes. Ocean geomorphology supports the provision of regulatory services, like dilution by ecosystems.
Soils and sediments
Soils and sediments are the layers of the earth's surface that support life. They comprise top-soil, sub-soil and ocean sediments and support a number of regulatory services.
Species
Species includes plants, animals, fungi, algae and genetic resources, which can be wild or domestic/commercial, for example livestock. Like habitats, species underpin a wide range of ecosystem services.
Structural and biotic integrity
Structural and biotic integrity relates to the extent to which the physical structure and composition of an ecosystem falls within its natural range of variation. These structural characteristics, such as canopy height and vegetation density, underpin many of the ecosystem services provided by ecosystems.
Water
Water includes surface water, ground water, ocean water, fossil water and soil water. Water is essential for a wide range of ecosystem services.