The protection and improvement of biodiversity is essential if Europe is to enjoy a prosperous and sustainable future. If we are to maintain, protect and improve our biodiversity, then restoration and upgrading of the ecological function of degraded habitats will play a key part in any future policy.

Within the European Union, the Natura 2000 network is the cornerstone of biodiversity policy. To restore, maintain and improve the status of species and habitats in the network is a major challenge, particularly in the face of the increasing pressures, including climate change.

The aim of the conference is to present the state of the art in ecological restoration.

Through lectures, workshops, poster sessions and excursions, the conference offers a unique opportunity for trans-boundary contacts and exchange of knowledge, experiences and good practices in ecological restporation and conservation with particular reference to the Natura 2000 network.