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Space and time aspects of ecosystem services, using the example of the EU Water Framework Directive

Within the concept of ecosystem services (ES), space and time approaches, with their physical and socio-economic dimensions, play an important role. Among the space aspects, the configuration (e.g. size, shape) and composition (pattern) of ecosystems, but also the spatial positions of service providing areas, service connecting areas and service benefiting areas are of great relevance. Ecosystem changes, and also differences between supply and demand (or use) of ES, are typical time-related aspects. Scale issues concern both the space and time dimensions. A scheme in the form of a guideline or a checklist is proposed, which helps to consider, systemize and improve space and time aspects in methodological frameworks and in special investigations. Space and time aspects of ES and the application of the scheme are exemplified on the European Union Water Framework Directive. The introduction of this directive as a political instrument has led to significant improvements of the ecological state of surface waters and the groundwater, and the ES they supply, not least due to the appropriate, exemplary consideration of space and time aspects.