Identifying and understanding novel ecosystem functions: a scientific approach to nature restoration law

• Published in: Journal of water and land development no. No 64; p. 203
• Main Authors: Hutniczak, Agnieszka K., Bryś, Wojciech, Dychkovskyi, Roman, Gaj, Renata, Dyczko, Artur, Błońska, Agnieszka, Bierza, Karolina, Bacler-Żbikowska, Barbara, Woźniak, Gabriela
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English; Polish
• Published: Polish Academy of Sciences 13.03.2025
• Subjects: biodiversity; ecosystem’s functioning; mineral resources mining; nature restoration law; novel ecosystems; novelty; spontaneous process
• ISSN: 2083-4535; 2083-4535
• DOI: 10.24425/jwld.2025.153532

Human activity causes changes in habitat conditions. Where habitat conditions have been significantly altered by human activities, novel ecosystems emerge. This paper aims to analyse novel ecosystem parameters, particularly in relation to biodiversity and restoration law. It presents the role of novel ecosystems in ecosystem functioning and their significance within urban-industrial landscapes. Based on extensive literature reviews, that these ecosystems have been a subject of scientific interest for many years. However, comprehensive knowledge of these ecosystems still needs to be broadened. An interdisciplinary approach to their management is essential. The European Union (EU) has implemented various legislative and policy measures aimed at restoring and conserving natural ecosystems and biodiversity across different members states. Key initiatives include the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, EU Habitats Directive, and EU Funding Programs, all of which promote sustainable development and strengthen restoration laws. Only a proper identification and understanding of novel ecosystems and their ecological processes can contribute to implementing relevant legal actions. In the urban industry landscape, the poor mineral post-mining habitat sites have the unique potential to harbor and develop biodiversity hot spots in densely populated areas. Many of these sites with very harsh habitat conditions that have been left to spontaneous processes going on have become protected sites with outstanding biodiversity established (e.g., Bytom city). Such examples in Silesia (S Poland) provide proof that such solutions should be a constant element of the post-mining site management plans.