Revamping Forest Restoration: Experts Weigh In On What Really Matters

Forest restoration is a hot topic, especially in places like the Mediterranean. The European Nature Restoration Regulation (NRR) has set some big goals, but there's a catch. The indicators they use to measure success might not be the best fit for everyone. That's where a recent study comes in. A group of over sixty experts from Spain, with backgrounds ranging from science to sociology, were asked to weigh in on thirty-four different indicators. These indicators came from the NRR, scientific literature, and even some that looked at social and economic factors. The experts had some strong opinions. They thought deadwood accumulation, both lying and standing, was the least important indicator. Why? Because it could increase the risk of wildfires. On the other hand, they valued native tree species dominance and tree species diversity highly. But here's where it gets interesting. The experts also agreed that socioeconomic indicators should be part of the mix. They thought positive public perception of restoration was a key metric. They also pointed out that the NRR is missing some important indicators, like those that measure ecosystem resilience, natural regeneration, fire risk, and soil erosion. So, what's the solution? The study suggests a flexible, goal-oriented framework. This would balance harmonization with regional adaptation, highlighting indicators that evaluate multiple restoration goals. The aim is to make forest restoration monitoring more effective in Spain and other southern European regions. It could also help in developing national restoration plans. But let's think critically here. While the study provides valuable insights, it's important to remember that forest restoration is complex. What works in one place might not work in another. It's all about finding the right balance.