What is the process of ecosystem restoration?

The process of ecosystem restoration specifically refers to the efforts aimed at returning degraded ecosystems to a healthy, stable, and sustainable condition. This often involves various strategies that might include the re-establishment of native species, rehabilitation of natural processes, and the removal of stressors that led to degradation. The goal in ecosystem restoration is to create an environment where native flora and fauna can thrive once again, which enhances biodiversity and contributes to the overall health of the planet. This approach not only improves ecological functions, such as carbon storage and water purification, but it also helps to re-establish community structures and ecosystem resilience.

In contrast, introducing new species to enhance diversity can sometimes lead to unintended consequences and may not necessarily support the overall recovery of the ecosystem. Establishing protected areas is important for conservation but does not directly involve the active restoration of ecosystems. Similarly, using pesticides to control invasive species is a management practice that can be part of a larger restoration effort, but it does not encompass the entirety of ecosystem restoration.