A common typology for ecosystem characteristics and ecosystem condition variables

The UN SEEA EEA aims for regular, standardized assessments of ecosystems, their condition, and the services they provide. Recording ecosystem condition is complex and requires robust guidelines. SEEA EEA defines ecosystem condition as overall quality, measured by quantitative metrics of abiotic and biotic characteristics. This paper proposes a simple, universal classification for these characteristics and metrics, based on established ecological concepts. The proposed SEEA EEA Ecosystem Condition Typology (SEEA ECT) is a hierarchical classification with six classes grouped into three main categories: abiotic, biotic, and landscape-level characteristics. It is designed to be practical and is cross-linked to existing typologies for ecosystem characteristics. Potential overlaps between classes were identified, and key groups of 'ancillary data' that should not be considered as ecosystem condition characteristics were highlighted. This new typology aims to create a meaningful, standardized reporting structure for ecosystem condition accounts, facilitating their broad application.