Ecological Restoration

Question 1

What is ecological restoration?

Answer 1

The process of assisting the recovery of an ecosystem that has been degraded, damaged or destroyed however there is not one standard definition that should fit this term.

Question 2

How do you see concepts of ecological restoration relating to food-system issues discussed in earlier parts of the class?

Answer 2

1. Soil health: reduce need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides by restoring degraded soils
   2.Biodiversity: support pollinators, beneficial insects and other wildlife that are essential for healthy food systems
2. Climate change: restoring wetlands and other carbon-rich ecosystems can help sequester carbon from the atmosphere while agroforestry can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions
3. Food Justice: restoration projects can help provide opportunities for marginalized communities to access fresh and nutritious food while supporting the conservation of traditional agricultural practices and knowledge.

Question 3

How does restoration relate to conservation?

Answer 3

Conservation aims to maintain existing ecosystems while restoration is focused on bringing back ecosystems that have been lost or degraded. They work together to protect and restore ecosystems by enhancing the biodiversity and ecological function of existing protected areas, while conservation efforts can help to prevent further degradation or loss of important ecosystems.