Ecosystems & Pathways
Assisted natural regeneration
Protecting and nurturing existing regrowth rather than planting, usually at far lower cost per hectare.
Assisted natural regeneration works with what is already on site: removing grazing and fire pressure, controlling competing weeds, and protecting seedlings that establish on their own.
Its advantages are cost and resilience, since local species establish in local patterns. Its limitation is that it depends on a seed source and residual rootstock, so heavily degraded land may need planting instead.
Frequently asked questions
How fast does it accumulate carbon?
Slower initially than planting, but often comparable over a full rotation at a fraction of the cost.
Does it count as a removal?
Yes, where regrowth increases stocks relative to a documented baseline.