Natural regeneration as a tool for large‐scale forest restoration in the tropics: prospects and challenges

background

This article is a review of natural regeneration in the context of large-scale forest restoration in the tropics. The article provides case studies of successful natural regeneration, pointing out the side benefits of genetic adaptation, traditionally-used species, and local biodiversity. These features also bring greater ecosystem resilience.

conclusions & takeaways

Natural regeneration can serve as an effective and low-cost tool in large-scale ecosystem restoration. The article suggests that to research and policy priorities should focus on identifying areas where natural regeneration is viable, developing monitoring protocols that allow local communities to measure natural regeneration, and by creating incentives, governance structures, and regulatory conditions that promote natural regeneration of forests.