What is rewilding?
a progressive approach to nature recovery
Rewilding is a forward-thinking approach to conservation which enables and trusts nature to take care of itself. It allows revitalised natural processes to reshape landscapes, repair damaged ecosystems, and restore biodiversity. By following nature’s rhythms, rewilding creates wilder, healthier habitats for wildlife and people, and works towards a point where they can thrive alongside each other.
Rewilding is about:
Trusting in nature’s wisdom
Nature knows best when it comes to survival and self-management. By creating the right conditions—freeing rivers by removing dykes and dams, reducing human intervention in wildlife management, allowing natural forest regeneration, and reintroducing species lost to human activity—we give nature the tools to thrive. After that, we step back and let nature take the lead.
Bringing back wildlife
Many European wildlife populations have declined significantly as a result of human activity. Some species have disappeared completely, which means we have lost the critical role they play in nature. Rewilding focuses on restoring the diversity and abundance of wildlife species, either by giving them the space and conditions to recover on their own, or through reintroductions. As these species begin to flourish, they can help to restore the balance of nature.
Enhancing wellbeing
Healthy nature means healthier people. Our dependence on nature for clean water, food, and air is fundamental. Connecting with wilder landscapes not only boosts mental and physical well-being, but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Rewilding reconnects modern society - rural and urban alike - with the wonder and richness of wild nature, inviting everyone to experience and thrive in these revitalised spaces.
Shaping a wilder, better tomorrow
Rewilding isn’t about reaching specific targets or a fixed endpoint, but supporting ongoing natural processes. Each step toward greater wildness represents progress. Through rewilding at scale, we can create long-term benefits for both wildlife and humanity and realise a healthier, wilder future for all.
“Rewilding is about changing the way we think about the value of wilder nature not just today, but long into the future.” (Carolina Soto-Navarro | Head of Wilder Nature)
Why do we need to rewild Europe?
Our ecosystems need to recover
Protecting nature isn’t enough - we must restore it. Many ecosystems, the foundation of our natural wealth, are damaged. Rewilding provides a unique opportunity to heal them. Robust, well-connected ecosystems make us more resilient to climate change and its impacts.
Keystone species are essential
Keystone species, such as top predators and large herbivores, play a critical role in driving natural processes. While some wildlife species are making a comeback in Europe, populations remain low. Rewilding can accelerate their recovery, restoring the vital food webs that keep wild nature balanced.
Wild nature is our best ally
Naturally functioning landscapes provide clean air and water, prevent flooding, store carbon, and help mitigate the scale and impact of climate change. Rewilding integrates ecology with modern economies, positioning wilder nature as a powerful ally in addressing today’s socio-economic challenges.
Communities are transformed
Rewilding can revitalise local economies, particularly in places where economic opportunities are limited. By fostering nature-based tourism and enterprises, we create pathways for communities to flourish. This approach benefits both rural and urban areas, offering sustainable livelihoods that are entwined with a thriving wild nature.
Wild places inspire
The thrill of wild nature reconnects people with the living planet, enhancing health and well-being. It fosters a shared sense of hope, humanity and pride in both urban and rural landscapes.
Natural solutions are cost-effective
Nature is fully capable of managing itself. By allowing natural processes to reshape our landscapes, we reduce the need for expensive, ongoing human intervention. Self-regulating nature is not only more sustainable, but also more economical.