0000000001325885
AUTHOR
Wouter Helmer
Measuring progress towards rewilding
Human domination of land has transformed ecosystems, modified ecological processes and influenced biodiversity composition across most of the terrestrial biosphere. Nevertheless, this global change does not necessarily translate into a total depletion of natural values. Innovative conservation actions are emerging as a promising strategy to enhance biodiversity, ecological resilience and ecosystem service delivery, as well as to retain ecological and evolutionary potential. For instance, rewilding projects have gained increasing attention from scientists, conservationists, practitioners, decision-makers and the media. Recovering the natural dynamics of ecosystems requires increasing ecosyst…
Connecting modern societies with wilder nature through development of nature-inclusive economies
Our relationship with nature needs a paradigm shift. Nature should no longer be considered as a vulnerable domain of conservationists that have to protect it against human threats. It should, on the contrary, be seen as a strong ally for all of us. An ally that can take care of itself, but also can help in solving modern socio-economic issues like climate adaptation, water management, sustainable food production and recreation. The big question is: are we clever enough to cope with this strong force? Rewilding Europe is developing a vision in which natural processes become vital in shaping our landscapes. Large showcases of more than 100.000 ha in different parts of the continent should pro…