Researchers have outlined a useful model for mainstreaming ecosystem services based on socially relevant, user-inspired research, stakeholder empowerment and adaptive management. While the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) process forms part of the overall assessment process, it should take into consideration the tools required by policy- makers for successful planning and management. Importantly, mainstreaming is more likely to succeed if users of ecosystem services are engaged early in the policy development process.