MERLIN Acamdemy: Module 4 – Scaling up freshwater restoration and Nature-based Solutions in Europe: an evidence-informed workflow

After this module, you will:

... understand the MERLIN Upscaling Workflow as a framework to translate policy targets into spatially explicit freshwater restoration actions, including its key phases (screening and planning).
... apply the Workflow to identify suitable restoration areas and determine the scale of intervention needed to achieve defined ecological and societal targets.
... understand how ecological modelling, ecosystem service assessment, and economic evaluation (e.g. Cost-Benefit Analysis) are combined to support evidence-based prioritisation and financing of restoration.
... identify representation gaps and prioritise restoration actions in line with the requirements of the Nature Restoration Regulation.
... navigate and analyse Natura 2000 data using the MERLIN web app, including Annex I habitats, species distributions and restoration indicators.
... interpret spatial data and assess restoration potential for freshwater habitats, including the key environmental factors influencing restoration success.
... apply the MERLIN web app to support strategic decision-making, including site prioritisation and the development of National Restoration Plans.

About this module

MERLIN Project

Learn about the philosophy of nature-based solutions, evaluation, holistic restoration planning and holistic restoration monitoring.

Learn about stakeholder engagement, partnership working and governance to support upscaling of restoration and Nature-based Solutions.

Learn everything about financing of nature-based solutions, from grant application to alternative financing mechanisms.