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

Di cosa tratta questo bando?

The call funds innovation actions that demonstrate at large scale how to protect, restore and manage marine vegetated habitats, known as blue forests, in European sea basins. Projects must work with national and regional authorities and engage local communities, researchers and NGOs.

Cosa finanzia questo bando?

Scope

The topic seeks multidisciplinary projects that demonstrate at large scale the protection, restoration and sustainable management of blue forest ecosystems, meaning marine and coastal vegetated habitats, in European sea basins. Proposals should help integrate blue carbon ecosystems into biodiversity frameworks, in particular the national restoration plans under the Nature Restoration Regulation. Each proposal addresses one sea basin or Mission lighthouse.

Proposals should address all of the following

• Protection and restoration: active restoration such as replanting and habitat re-establishment, or passive restoration through removal of pressures.
• Conservation: support authorities in establishing and managing marine protected areas and EU Blue Parks.
• Innovative financing: assess business models and mechanisms combining public and private funding, such as nature credits or carbon removal certification.
• Research and monitoring: assess cumulative stressors, including invasive alien species and climate change, with long-term multi-sensor monitoring that continues beyond the project, for example through EMODnet.
• Community engagement and education to support upscaling and replication.

Expected outcomes

• Larger area and better condition of marine and coastal vegetated habitats.
• Maintained and enhanced natural carbon storage and support for biodiversity and fisheries.
• New financing and incentive mechanisms and stronger public participation.

Quando scade il bando?

21 settembre 2027 (319 giorni)

21 September 2027 (single-stage)