A Quarter of Europe’s Land Could Be Rewilded: What’s the Plan for 117 Million Hectares of Natural Ecosystems?

Govind Tekale

A study suggests that 117 million hectares in Europe could benefit from rewilding to regenerate natural ecosystems and enhance biodiversity.

Photo Source: Google

Photo Source: Google

The European Union aims to expand protected natural areas to 30% and restore damaged territories with potential for nature conservation by 2030.

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Rewilding, both passive and active, is highlighted as a key strategy for restoring ecological functions and reducing human pressure on the land.

Photo Source: Google

Photo Source: Google

Passive rewilding involves managing natural processes, such as increasing ecological connectivity, particularly in colder regions like Scandinavia, Scotland, and the Baltic states.

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Active rewilding focuses on reintroducing key species, especially herbivores and carnivores, to restore ecosystem balance in areas such as Croatia, Sardinia, and southern France.

Photo Source: Google

Photo Source: Google

The study identifies that replacing rural management with natural management in depopulated areas offers economic opportunities in tourism and leisure.

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Depopulated regions across Europe could be transformed into zones with greater environmental protection, supporting the EU's biodiversity strategy.

Photo Source: Google

Photo Source: Google

Restoring herbivore populations to replace domestic animals is crucial for biomass control and ecosystem recovery.

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The return of large carnivores in larger, conflict-manageable areas could enhance landscape resilience against intense fires.

Photo Source: Google

Photo Source: Google

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