Large-scale demonstration for mapping the distribution and condition of marine habitats to implement the Nature Restoration Regulation

Expected Outcome:This topic aims at directly engaging and supporting relevant public authorities with mapping at large scale the conditions of marine habitats needed for implementing the Nature Restoration Regulation and for achieving one or several objectives of the Mission Restore our Ocean and Waters[1]. The direct involvement of relevant authorities and stakeholders in the consortium is strongly encouraged.Project results are expected to contribute to all the following expected outcomes: Member States have the capacity and access to tried and tested solutions to complete the mapping of the distribution and condition of coastal and marine habitats listed in Annex II of the Nature Restoration Regulation[2] (NRR) in the waters under their jurisdiction, which is needed to fulfil the obligations under Article 5 of the NRR within the deadlines, and obligations under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) and the Birds and Habitats Directive (BHD); Substantial areas of habitats have been mapped and their condition assessed. Priority should be given to Groups 1-6 of Annex II, followed by Group 7 of Annex II [3], in line with applicable deadlines; Member States have the capacity to determine priority areas for restoring marine habitats, and to prepare, update and implement their national restoration plans under the NRR, also contributing to the implementation of marine strategies under the MSFD and obligations under the BHD.Scope:In line with the objectives and targets of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, the Nature Restoration Regulation targets (in particular those set for 2030), the Birds and Habitats Directives, the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) and relevant national strategies contributing to these objectives, proposals should:Leverage and integrate the best available operational knowledge, technologies and tools, including those delivered by projects from Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europ