Context
The entry into force of the European Union’s Nature Restoration Law poses a major challenge for the authorities responsible for planning and implementing effective and sustainable marine restoration actions. The complexity of marine ecosystems, the effects of climate change, multiple human pressures and the need to balance ecological, social and economic objectives call for new tools to support evidence-based decision-making.
Objectives
It is in this context that MORSE — Models Supporting Practical Restoration Of Habitats In Europe’s Seas — has emerged. This European project will develop and demonstrate advanced models to support the restoration of marine habitats and ecosystems. The project combines scientific innovation, ecological modelling, stakeholder engagement and alignment with European biodiversity and restoration policies.
- Develop an integrated modelling framework to assess and prioritise marine restoration actions adapted to different climate and management scenarios.
- Improve the knowledge base available to competent authorities and professionals responsible for marine ecosystem restoration.
- Design and demonstrate effective restoration pathways that are resilient to climate change in different European regions.
- Integrate ecological, climate and sea-use models to analyse the long-term effects of different restoration actions.
- Promote the co-creation of knowledge among scientists, authorities, managers and other stakeholders through a participatory approach based on the Theory of Change.
- Strengthen the technical capacities of authorities and professionals through training activities and practical support materials.
Solution developed
MORSE will develop an integrated modelling framework combining advanced ecosystem models, species distribution models, climate scenarios and spatial analysis tools. This platform will make it possible to simulate the evolution of marine ecosystems under different restoration scenarios, identify key ecological thresholds and assess the effectiveness of different management measures.
The models will incorporate information on habitats, species, ecological connectivity, marine protected areas, invasive species, ecosystem services and sea uses. They will generate different restoration options, which will be assessed and prioritised according to ecological, socio-economic and regulatory criteria.
Expected impact
- Facilitate the implementation of the European Nature Restoration Law.
- Support the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
- Improve the planning and prioritisation of marine restoration actions through robust and operational scientific tools.
- Increase the resilience of marine ecosystems to climate change.
- Promote the adoption of restoration measures that are based on scientific evidence and socially accepted.
- Strengthen the capacity of public authorities and managers to design and implement effective restoration programmes.
