Restoration of natural habitats in Réunion - ReMiNat

ReMiNat (Restoration of natural habitats in Réunion) is part of a research and innovation initiative aimed at slowing biodiversity loss in Réunion. The goal of the project is to develop and assess a territorial policy for the restoration of natural habitats affected by biological invasions, through the use of integrated approaches involving diagnostics, trials, restoration work and ecological monitoring.
© Marion Dailloux, CIRAD

© Marion Dailloux, CIRAD

A partnership-based approach to the restoration of natural habitats in Réunion

In 2018, a working group was created by the French State, the department of Réunion, the Office National des Forêts (ONF), the Conservatoire Botanique de Mascarin (CBN-CPIE Mascarin), the Direction de l’Environnement, de l’Aménagement et du Logement (DEAL Réunion), CIRAD in Réunion-Mayotte-Indian Ocean, the University of Réunion, and the Parc National de La Réunion).  Its goal was to identify 55 000 ha of land with high conservation value, including more than 5 000 ha requiring priority control and restoration actions.

This has made it possible to update knowledge on the conservation status of natural habitats with respect to invasive plant species, and to launch discussions with partners to develop a restoration strategy.

The ReMiNat project is thus part of this broader collaborative process, known as “Control and Restoration of Priority Habitats in Réunion”. In addition to its research and development dimension, the initiative covers all topics needed to shape a regional policy for the restoration of affected habitats. Efforts on political governance, the resources required, and the identification and expansion of operational capacities across the territory are therefore continuing in connection with the ReMiNat project.

An integrated strategy

The goal of the ReMiNat “Restoration of Natural Habitats” project is to structure the key actors in Réunion in order to:

  • Support and strengthen the work of ecological restoration operators through trials and the development of innovative tools;
  • Unite partners around a spatialised, operational strategy to restore the functionality of natural habitats and their interfaces;
  • Structure data collection and dissemination.
Projet Reminat

Expected outcomes: knowledge, trials, training

  • Better knowledge of the conservation status of natural habitats
  • Prioritisation of restoration actions
  • Trials with technical restoration processes
  • Support and training for partners responsible for restoration projects

Funding

  • Fonds Vert (State): 4.5 million euros over 5 years
  • Operational interventions: 1–2 million euros per year (local authorities, EU, ONF, etc.)

Contract partners :

  • France ; 
  • Région La Réunion ; 
  • Département  La Réunion ; 
  • Office National des Forêts ; 
  • Conservatoire botanique national de Mascarin ;