Govind Tekale
A study suggests that 117 million hectares in Europe could benefit from rewilding to regenerate natural ecosystems and enhance biodiversity.
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The European Union aims to expand protected natural areas to 30% and restore damaged territories with potential for nature conservation by 2030.
Rewilding, both passive and active, is highlighted as a key strategy for restoring ecological functions and reducing human pressure on the land.
Passive rewilding involves managing natural processes, such as increasing ecological connectivity, particularly in colder regions like Scandinavia, Scotland, and the Baltic states.
Active rewilding focuses on reintroducing key species, especially herbivores and carnivores, to restore ecosystem balance in areas such as Croatia, Sardinia, and southern France.
The study identifies that replacing rural management with natural management in depopulated areas offers economic opportunities in tourism and leisure.
Depopulated regions across Europe could be transformed into zones with greater environmental protection, supporting the EU's biodiversity strategy.
Restoring herbivore populations to replace domestic animals is crucial for biomass control and ecosystem recovery.
The return of large carnivores in larger, conflict-manageable areas could enhance landscape resilience against intense fires.
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