Forest restoration strengthens existing forest systems instead of only adding new forest area. It can improve carbon uptake while also supporting biodiversity, water retention and resilience to drought and heat.
For Gelderland, restoring about 9,800 hectares of forest has an estimated sequestration potential of 0.013 to 0.027 Mton CO₂-eq. The climate effect is modest compared with some reduction measures, but it is relevant because it combines carbon storage with ecosystem recovery.