A dataset of the assessment of main service functions of forest ecosystems in China

<p indent="0mm">As the dominant component of terrestrial ecosystems, forest ecosystems are essential for providing various services. The assessment of their main service functions are beneficial for scientifically, objectively, and quantitatively reflecting the value of forest resources and ecosystem services. Based on the data from the 7th (2004-2008), 8th (2009-2013), and 9th (2014-2018) National Forest Resource Inventories, and in line with the national standard of <italic>Specifications for Assessments of Forest Ecosystem Services (GB</italic>/<italic>T 38582—2020)</italic>, an evaluation of the main service functions of forest ecosystems in China was conducted. These functions include water conservation, carbon fixation and oxygen release, atmospheric purification and biodiversity conservation. The dataset provides quantitative and monetary assessment results for eight indicators within these four main functions, organized by functional categories. The data sources encompass the forest resources inventory dataset, the forest ecological linkage dataset, the social public datasets, and relevant reference data. A distributed evaluation method for forest ecosystem services was applied to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data output. Additionally, a forest ecological service correction coefficient was introduced to adjust parameters that could not be directly observed in the field. Indicator calculations were rigorously performed in strict accordance with the formulas and model packages provided in the national standards for the assessment of forest ecosystem service functions, thereby ensuring the reliability of the results. This dataset offers a scientific basis for improving dynamic assessment and monitoring systems of forest ecological environments in China.