MERLIN learns from 18 best-practice case-study in terms of innovative restoration measures, types of governance and financing frameworks. Within these case studies, MERLIN explores social, economic and environmental success factors, generating a blueprint for the wide-spread implementation of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) suited for replication in various contexts. To showcase restoration in the entire spectrum of freshwater-related ecosystems, MERLIN comprises case studies in three realms: small streams, large transboundary rivers, and peatlands and wetlands.
The case studies all include demonstration sites, where restoration had already been performed before the start of MERLIN, and implementation sites, where restoration was implemented within MERLIN (except CS7b and CS 10, where no measures were implemented within MERLIN). The case studies meticulously tracked and optimised their strategies, involved local stakeholders, monitored outcomes and impacts, and developed plans how to maintain and upscale restoration efforts and societal transformation in their regions.
These outcomes provide methodologies and evidence to guide future projects and funding programmes.
