How can science help to implement the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021-2030?

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Environmental Science
• Conservation Biology

Background:

• The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030) aims to prevent, halt, and reverse ecosystem degradation worldwide.
• Forest landscape restoration is a key component of the Decade's strategy.
• Scientific foundations are crucial for effective restoration efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the role of science in achieving the objectives of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.
• To share reflections from key figures involved in the Science Task Force.
• To emphasize the importance of scientific understanding in forest landscape restoration.

Main Methods:

• Reflective analysis based on expert perspectives.
• Synthesis of insights from the Chair of the 2021 Science Task Force and the IUCN Coordinator.
• Contribution to a theme issue focused on scientific foundations for ecosystem restoration.

Main Results:

• Science is pivotal for guiding and validating ecosystem restoration actions.
• Interdisciplinary scientific collaboration is essential for addressing complex restoration challenges.
• Evidence-based approaches enhance the success and scalability of restoration projects.

Conclusions:

• Continued investment in scientific research is necessary to meet the ambitious goals of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.
• Strengthening the link between scientific research and practical restoration implementation is vital.
• The collective scientific community must actively contribute to global restoration efforts.