OPERAs is exploring how ecosystem services based approaches fit with current institutional structures and governance systems, and where unforeseen policy conflicts are occurring.

Conditions and recommendations for the design and deployment of a mix of policy instruments, including direct regulation, are being provided to enhance the fit of instruments in the context of the governance and institutional structures within which they are embedded.

Recommendations for designing better governance and institutional structures are being provided to match these to an integrated cross-sectoral ecosystem services approach.