This Innovation Lab explored investment opportunities in nature conservation within the EU’s protected area network, with the aim of stimulating and scaling up private investment. 

In light of the large financing gap for conservation and the increasing pressures of climate change, there is an urgent need for mechanisms that can attract private capital in addition to public support. The Lab brought together researchers, experts, and businesses to evaluate promising financial instruments and assess barriers.

Building on these insights and concrete case studies, discussions focused on opportunities to make nature restoration economically viable. These insights and recommendations are also highly relevant for policymakers in the context of integrating nature-based solutions into investment and regulatory frameworks.