Unfortunately, over the last 20–50 years, 50% of salt marshes, 35% of mangroves, and 29% of seagrasses have been lost. Kelp forests are also facing a global decline in abundance of 1.8% per year. While restoration efforts are crucial for recovering degraded ecosystems, preserving what already exists is often considered a more effective and efficient
strategy.

While restoration efforts are valuable for mitigating ecological damage, they may fall short in replicating the intricate dynamics and services found in preserved ecosystems, especially within a short timeframe. The complexity of species interactions highlights the potential for unforeseen consequences even with well-planned ecosystem changes. By prioritizing preservation over restoration, we ensure the longterm health and functionality of ecosystems while
minimizing the costs and potential risks associated with altering complex ecological relationships.