Large-scale demonstration of protection, restoration and management of blue forest ecosystems in European sea basins

Expected Outcome: Project results are expected to contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: Increased area and improved condition of marine and coastal vegetated habitats within EU waters through effective on-site conservation, restoration and management of activities to help deliver on the objectives of the Nature Restoration Regulation; Maintained and enhanced capacity of blue carbon ecosystems to naturally store carbon, supporting EU climate mitigation goals; Enhanced capacity of marine vegetated habitats/blue carbon ecosystems to support biodiversity and fisheries; Established novel financing and incentive mechanisms that support conservation, restoration and management of blue forest ecosystems projects; Raised public awareness and improved community participation in blue forest ecosystems protection, restoration and management activities, ensuring long-term involvement. Scope: This topic seeks innovative multidisciplinary projects that will advance large-scale demonstration of protection, restoration and management of blue forest ecosystems, focusing on the assessment of ecological interactions, restoration of degraded ecosystems, conservation, and sustainable management within European sea basins. Projects are required to develop collaborations with EU Member States and Associated Countries national and regional agencies and authorities and policy makers and engage with local communities, researchers and NGOs. The direct involvement of relevant authorities…