The most mature market for ecosystem services in the U.s. is wetland
mitigation banking and wetlands are regulated by the USACE
and a number of different state regulatory agencies. These markets
are based on a statutory mandate that requires developers to obtain
a permit to offset any loss of wetland or habitat before they are
allowed to harm a wetland or an endangered species. Implementing
regulations require the developer to avoid and minimize any impacts,
and when necessary, mitigate for these impacts.