In the face of increasing environmental challenges such as biodiversity loss, land degradation and climate change, nature restoration is emerging as a pivotal and viable response to these increasing global challenges.
However, it’s important to remember that efforts to protect nature benefit society far beyond simply preserving ecosystems. These efforts have far-reaching positive effects on society as a whole, from economic growth to improved public health.
Let’s explore how restoring nature creates these positive impacts.
1. Nature restoration benefits job creation and economic growth
Nature restoration fuels the economy through job creation, directly and indirectly supporting numerous sectors. According to a European Commission study, efforts to restore degraded ecosystems could potentially generate between 50,000 and 140,000 jobs annually.
Investments in the Natura 2000 network, Europe’s cornerstone for biodiversity conservation, could support up to 500,000 additional jobs. These employment opportunities span various fields, including agriculture, fishing, forestry, tourism and climate adaptation initiatives​.
Restoring natural landscapes not only sustains existing jobs but also paves the way for new entrepreneurial activities. Regions that prioritize restoration often see increased investments in eco-friendly businesses, further enhancing local economies. For instance, protected areas like the Medes Islands Marine Reserve in Spain have significantly boosted tourism revenue while simultaneously supporting local fishermen by ensuring sustainable fish stocks​.
2. Nature enhances nature-based tourism
Tourism is one of the most apparent beneficiaries of nature restoration, with natural landscapes serving as major tourist attractions. In Europe, nature-based tourism employs around 12 million people, with 3.1 million jobs linked to protected areas, including Natura 2000 sites. These sites attract between 1.2 to 2.2 billion visitor days per year, generating recreational benefits worth an estimated €5 to €9 billion annually​. This is a powerful case study of how investing directly in nature restoration has wider positive knock-on effects in a region.
The benefits of restored landscapes extend beyond revenue. They also provide places for recreation, relaxation and education, enhancing the visitor experience. As tourism grows, so does awareness of conservation efforts, creating a cycle of positive feedback in which public interest and financial support for restoration efforts increase.
3. Nature restoration benefits agriculture and food security
Restoration efforts play a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity by improving soil health, water retention and crop pollination. The report highlights that pollination services in the EU are currently valued at around €10-15 billion per year. Revitalizing pollinator habitats and implementing restoration activities such as planting hedgerows can significantly boost crop quality and yield while also providing flood control benefits​.
Moreover, healthier ecosystems can reduce the need for costly artificial infrastructures like dams and water treatment plants. By investing in nature-based solutions, governments and businesses can avoid the high costs associated with adapting to climate impacts on agriculture, such as yield reductions and water shortages.
4. Preserves cultural heritage and strengthening community identity
Nature restoration often goes hand-in-hand with the preservation of cultural landscapes and local heritage. Many ecosystems, such as ancient woodlands, grasslands or traditional agricultural areas, hold cultural significance and have shaped the history, tradition and identities of communities over centuries. Restoring these areas helps maintain cultural practices tied to the land, such as traditional farming methods, foraging or medicinal plant use.
Moreover, engaging communities in restoration projects fosters a sense of land stewardship and strengthens social bonds. When local people actively participate in restoring and maintaining natural landscapes, it enhances community pride and identity. These projects can also provide educational opportunities, teaching future generations about the cultural and ecological importance of the land, thus reinforcing the connection between nature, culture and society.
5. Nature promotes public health and well-being
Beyond economic and environmental benefits, nature restoration contributes to public health and well-being. Restored green spaces provide communities with cleaner air, opportunities for physical activities and mental health benefits associated with spending time in nature. Research has shown that access to natural environments can reduce stress, anxiety and depression, thereby decreasing the societal costs linked to healthcare services.
Looking beyond the climate challenge
Nature restoration is not merely an environmental issue; it’s a multidimensional solution that offers economic, social and health benefits. By investing in nature, we create resilient communities that are better equipped to face the challenges of the future. As we continue to push for more ambitious restoration targets, the ripple effects on society will only grow, proving that the path to a sustainable future is indeed rooted in nature.
Dulra is developing a cutting-edge AI data management platform designed to help nature-based solution projects secure funding by converting raw ecological, climate and socio-economic data into actionable reports for funders. Learn more.
