Which of the following is NOT a type of ecosystem service?

Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans derive from natural ecosystems, and they are typically classified into four main categories: provisioning services, regulating services, cultural services, and supporting services. Provisioning services include the production of food, water, timber, and other goods. Regulating services pertain to the benefits obtained from the regulation of ecosystem processes, such as climate regulation, flood control, and disease regulation. Cultural services encompass the non-material benefits people obtain from ecosystems, including recreation, inspiration, and cultural heritage.

Pollution services, however, do not exist as a recognized type of ecosystem service. Instead, pollution is viewed as a negative externality or degradation of ecosystem services rather than a benefit. It represents a harmful impact on ecosystems that can disrupt the balance of natural processes and reduce the overall health and functionality of the environment. Therefore, characterizing pollution as a type of ecosystem service misrepresents its impact and effects on ecological systems and the benefits they provide to humanity.