What is the purpose of an ecological restoration project?

The purpose of an ecological restoration project is to return disturbed ecosystems to their original function. This involves a series of actions designed to rehabilitate and restore the health of an ecosystem that has been degraded, damaged, or destroyed. An effective restoration aims to reinstate the natural processes, functions, and infrastructure that support the ecosystem, allowing it to function as closely as possible to its pre-disturbance condition.

Restoration can involve re-establishing native species, improving soil quality, enhancing water quality, and providing habitat for wildlife, ultimately leading to increased biodiversity. By focusing on restoring ecological integrity, these projects seek to revive the natural balance and resilience of ecosystems, which is critical for sustaining both the environment and the species that rely on it.

Other options may have their own merits but do not align with the primary focus of ecological restoration. Introducing new species to a habitat can sometimes disrupt the existing ecosystem balance rather than help restore it. Monitoring invasive species is essential for maintaining ecosystem health, but it does not directly relate to the restoration process itself. Enhancing urban landscapes, while beneficial, typically refers to urban planning and design rather than the ecological restoration of natural environments.