On 11–12th December, the LIFE MAPPER Restoration Workshop was held in Bologna at the CNR Conference Centre, bringing together researchers from several European LIFE projects, policymakers, and representatives of key EU institutions. Hosted by CNR-ISMAR and the University of Naples Federico II, the event created a dedicated space for dialogue between science and policy on marine ecosystem restoration.
The workshop addressed the implementation of major EU frameworks, including the Nature Restoration Law (NRL), the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), and the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030. Opening sessions provided a strategic overview of policy objectives and highlighted the need for coordinated, science-based approaches to support marine restoration across Europe.
Participants shared experiences from ongoing European projects such as REDRESS, LIFE DREAM, CLIMAREST, LIFE ECOREST, LIFE LOPHELIA, as well as national initiatives including PNRR MER and NBFC restoration activities. These contributions showcased current methodologies, challenges, and best practices, offering a broad perspective on restoration efforts across different marine habitats.
Interactive discussion sessions encouraged active engagement among researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, focusing on key topics such as habitat condition assessment, restoration thresholds, and the definition of favourable reference areas. These exchanges reinforced the importance of harmonising approaches and consolidating knowledge at the European level.
Within this framework, LIFE MAPPER was presented as a central enabling tool: a dynamic knowledge platform designed to organise, share, and make accessible scientific and technical information on marine habitat mapping and restoration. By fostering collaboration and open access to data, LIFE MAPPER supports informed decision-making and contributes to the long-term protection and recovery of Europe’s seas.
