Research team develops socio-ecological guidelines for EU nature conservation regulation
How can Europe’s agricultural landscapes be restored in a way that benefits ecosystems and society? A strong connection between people and their environment is central to the success of the new EU Nature Restoration Regulation. This is shown by researchers from the Universities of Göttingen and Kassel and Charles Darwin University (Australia). The EU regulation is scientifically regarded as a decisive step in nature conservation. However, it has met with reservations in society and politics. In their article, the researchers formulate recommendations for a socially inclusive implementation of the plans. It was published in the journal Restoration Ecology
The regulation obliges all EU member states to restore 20 percent of degraded ecosystems such as forests, peatlands and agricultural landscapes by 2030. What is supported by scientists is controversial in society and politics. In order to reduce the hurdles, the researchers identify five socio-ecological dimensions that are decisive for acceptance and effectiveness: (1) using landscapes as places of learning; (2) incorporating rural and agricultural cultural heritage; (3) empowering land users to act responsibly; (4) supporting multifunctional land use and (5) anchoring participatory, cooperative approaches. social trends such as structural change in agriculture, urbanization and digitalization have led to the loss of many connections between people and nature. However, diverse opportunities to experience nature are crucial for the successful and socially accepted restoration of biodiversity in our agricultural landscapes in the long term," explains lead author Abul Polas, formerly a doctoral student at the University of Kassel and now employed at the University of Göttingen
Using various examples from Germany, the research team shows how socio-ecological approaches can improve the acceptance and implementation of restoration projects. For example, measures could be implemented through closer cooperation between agriculture, nature conservation, administration and research - for example via local "restoration councils" or landscape conservation associations. The multifunctionality of restored areas could be promoted by removing political barriers to agroforestry systems or paludiculture. In addition, culturally significant landscape elements such as orchards, traditional land use practices such as sheep farming or regionally produced food could be systematically protected, made visible and integrated into restoration programs. the EU regulation on the restoration of nature offers a great opportunity. For it to be a success in times of multiple ecological and societal crises, social and ecological aspects must be considered together," emphasizes Tobias Plieninger, Head of the Department of Social-Ecological Interactions in Agricultural Systems at the Universities of Göttingen and Kassel
The work was supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG)
Original publication: Polas, A. B., Topp, E., Ahammad, R., Jay, M., Kmoch, L. & Plieninger, T. Strengthening human-nature connections in agricultural landscapes through the EU Nature Restoration Regulation. Restoration Ecology (2025). DOI: 10.1111/rec.70278
