Wednesday, July 8, 2026

2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Room BM.1.23

---

Details

Semi-natural grasslands are among Europe’s most biodiverse ecosystems, providing essential habitats for countless plant and animal species while supporting ecosystem services that sustain human wellbeing. Yet these grasslands have declined drastically due to land-use intensification, abandonment, and fragmentation. Under the EU Nature Restoration Regulation, measures must be implemented to restore 30%, 60%, and 90% of the area of Annex I semi-natural grassland types that are not in good condition by 2030, 2040, and 2050, respectively, as well as to re-establish areas where these habitat types have been lost. But what does “restoration” truly mean for the characteristic species and ecological functions of these systems? And can these efforts also advance broader goals of climate resilience, social equity, and sustainable rural development? This symposium examines how Europe can reconcile people and nature in the restoration of semi-natural grasslands to ensure restoration is effective, sustainable, equitable, and adaptable. Presentations will explore how the EU can achieve its biodiversity targets and assess how far current actions have progressed in halting and reversing grassland degradation. Speakers will share evidence on the most effective strategies for conservation and restoration, showcasing the integration of ecological science with social innovation, emphasising the need to co-design restoration initiatives with landowners, local communities, and policymakers to align ecological outcomes with economic and cultural values. The symposium will also highlight how scientific innovations, such as remote sensing, can support more targeted and scalable restoration approaches. By convening researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders from across disciplines and sectors, this session aims to identify shared priorities and practical pathways for restoring semi-natural grasslands as dynamic systems that sustain biodiversity, support livelihoods, and strengthen Europe’s natural and social resilience. Ultimately, it seeks to move restoration beyond a technical challenge toward a collaborative, value-driven process that unites nature conservation with human wellbeing.

---

Speakers and Presentation Titles

---

Organiser