Specificities and complementarities of ecological engineering and restoration ecology

Abstract

The origin, objectives and applications of ecological engineering and restoration ecology are different. While the former results from the combination of ecological principles with civil engineers know-how, the latter is the result of scientific approaches. Ecological engineering aims at solving an environmental problem based on a good understanding of the living world as well adapted techniques. Its scope is broad and pragmatic. The purpose of ecological restoration is biodiversity conservation by recover-ing viable communities and functional ecosystems. These ambitious approaches are designed on the medium or long term. Both try to assert their originality through specific networks and communication media, whereas they benefit one from the other.