Our guide to wetland restoration projects for companies

In this white paper you will discover:

What wetlands are, and why is it important to maintain and restore Europe's wetlands.

Ways businesses can take action to help preserve and restore wetlands.

The case study of our ongoing wetland restoration work in our Ploërdut forest in France.

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Why invest in wetland restoration?

Wetlands ranging from peat bogs and peatlands to grasslands are vital for biodiversity and climate resilience. Under the Ramsar Convention (1971), internationally significant wetlands must be protected to safeguard the species that rely on them.

As climate change intensifies, these waterlogged ecosystems help mitigate extreme weather, store carbon, and regulate water resources. They also act as natural filters, improving water quality and supporting countless species. Restoring wetlands enhances biodiversity while strengthening ecosystem resilience.

Initiatives like World Wetlands Day highlight their importance, while governments and NGOs continue mapping and studying these landscapes for better protection. In 2023, new legislation reinforced wetlands as an invaluable asset for nature and society.

This guide will help you understand why investing in wetland restoration benefits both the environment and businesses committed to sustainability.

 

What is a Wetland?

A wetland is an ecosystem defined by the presence of water permanently or temporarily. These landscapes include peat bogs, marshes, and coastal areas, often home to hygrophilous plants (species adapted to aquatic environments). Wetlands play a fundamental role in regulating water resources and supporting biodiversity.

 

What types of wetlands does the Ramsar Convention recognise?

The Ramsar Convention identifies several types of wetlands, many of which are internationally important for wildlife conservation. These include:

  • Peatlands 
  • Lakes and rivers
  • Coastal wetlands

Recognising and protecting these areas, the convention promotes sustainable wetland management while preserving ecological integrity.

 

Why should businesses support wetland restoration?

Healthy wetlands provide vital ecosystem services for businesses. Approximately 55% of global GDP depends directly on biodiversity, including wetlands. 

Wetland restoration projects offer tangible environmental and business benefits. They:

  • Support biodiversity by providing essential habitats for birds, fish, and other wildlife.
  • Improve water quality, acting as natural filters that remove pollutants.
  • Enhance climate resilience, helping to regulate floods and store carbon.
  • Support sustainable business practices that align with ESG goals and corporate responsibility initiatives.

By investing in wetland restoration, businesses can contribute to nature-based solutions while strengthening their own sustainability strategies.