This work is the first product of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, a four-year international work programme designed to meet the needs of decision-makers for scientific information on the links between ecosystem change and human well-being. It offers an overview of the project.

It will also improve policy and decisionmaking at all levels through improved collaboration between natural and social scientists, and between scientists and policymakers. Ecosystems and Human Well-Being is an essential introduction to the project.