There is a strong correlation between socio-economic well being and burden of diseases expressed in DALD/capita (disability-adjusted life-days).

Cultural, spiritual and recreational ecosystem services:
The state of the natural environment has strong influence on the quality of life of man. Individuals as well as society stand to benefit from intact ecosystems in a non-material way: Recreation, aesthetic appreciation, inspiration and education are essential for an existence worth living, be it during vacation or for everyday life. Such services can improve mental and physical health, enhance a subjective sense of culture or place, and also enrich objective knowledge of natural and social sciences, e.g. botany, biology, history and archaeology. Health benefits from nature may be materially less tangible than those captured by conventional health indicators or standard economic valuation measures. Nonetheless, a sound environment and its positive impact on human health have got a high value in all societies. Various traditions tight-knit with nature, e.g. harvest festivals and midsummer/midwinter festivals, play an important role in developing social capital and enhancing social well-being (MA , 2006)