Ecosystem restoration needs to be scaled up across Europe to meet commitments on climate, biodiversity and social well-being. Increased finance will make it possible for project developers to implement restoration efforts more effectively. However, for restoration project developers to gain access to these funds, they must understand the various sources of finance available and how to access them. The Restoration Project Developers’ Playbook on Private Finance (Europe) aims to help restoration project developers understand existing private finance options and assess whether these can be suitable to meet their needs.

In particular, the Playbook guides restoration project developers as they work to understand the private sector’s motivations for supporting ecosystem restoration. It also outlines the available private finance options and details the impact and financial information needed for developing a project’s business plan. Additionally, The Playbook highlights collaborative approaches, such as project integration into larger financial products, landscape initiatives and specialized accelerators, which can enhance a project’s potential to secure private finance. The Playbook also presents five case studies of restoration projects across Europe. These case studies provide key lessons relevant to other restoration projects. Used appropriately, The Playbook will help remove barriers to accessing private finance and bring about a future where restored ecosystems allow nature and humanity to flourish side by side.