Imagine investing one euro and receiving up to fifty-one euros back in societal benefits. It sounds extraordinary, yet that’s precisely what the recent publication, “Restoring Nature: an Investment that Pays Off,” demonstrates. Conducted by VITO and brought to life visually by #inextremis, in close collaboration with the communication team at WWF-Belgium—who coordinated input from Natagora and Natuurpunt—this study sets a benchmark in ecological research and strategic communication.

Nature restoration is typically perceived as an environmental imperative, but its economic and social benefits are profound and measurable. Our collaborative effort aimed to visually present these benefits clearly and compellingly, demonstrating that restoring ecosystems is financially and socially advantageous.

Inside the study

The publication explores three detailed Belgian case studies: Demerbroeken, Kastanjebos, and Plateau des Tailles. Each site underwent targeted restoration interventions—reviving prairies, wetlands, peatlands, and forests—to re-establish crucial ecosystems.

The results were remarkable:

• Demerbroeken demonstrated an 8% annual return, translating to approximately €18 million over 100 years. Key highlights included significant flood protection, enhanced recreational opportunities generating over €3.6 million annually, and improved public health outcomes.
• Kastanjebos offered even more impressive results, with an annual return of 51%. Restoration boosted biodiversity, recreational visits, and carbon sequestration, highlighting tangible benefits like increased property values and substantial contributions to local economies.
• Plateau des Tailles showcased a robust 25% annual return, driven by significant recreational benefits, carbon storage equivalent to eliminating emissions from millions of car kilometres, and crucial nitrogen removal from water bodies.

Collaborative excellence in action

The success of this publication lies in the dynamic synergy between VITO, WWF-Belgium, Natagora, Natuurpunt, and #Inextremis. While VITO conducted rigorous research, our agency’s role was pivotal in developing the publication’s design and illustrations, closely coordinating with WWF’s communication team. This cooperation ensured the seamless integration of expert insights and clear, visually engaging content.

This partnership exemplifies how combining scientific rigour, strategic communication, and visually appealing design can elevate critical environmental conversations effectively. It also reinforces our collective message: investing in nature is good stewardship and smart economics.

Setting the benchmark

Our publication stands as a best practice reference, demonstrating how careful planning, collaborative teamwork, and strategic visual communication deliver results that resonate far beyond the environmental sector. The findings underline a crucial message: nature restoration yields high returns, enhancing ecological resilience and economic prosperity.

We are proud to have contributed our design and illustrative expertise to this ground-breaking project. We look forward to future initiatives that continue bridging the gap between ecological integrity and economic vitality.

Together, we’ve proven that when nature thrives, society and economy thrive alongside it.