Content
Bridging the gap between science and policy action
We build on the scientific knowledge, methodologies, and operational experience developed across Europe for the monitoring, conservation, and restoration of marine habitats
Drawing on data from the Habitats Directive (HD) and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), the project supports the concrete implementation of the new Nature Restoration Regulaton (NRR)
Operational tools
LIFE-MAPPER
translates scientific evidence into operational guidance for Member States, marine managers and practitioners The LIFE-MAPPER Manual(Feb 2028) The definitive EU-level reference guide. It integrates fragmented data, methodologies, and best practices into a single comprehensive document for mapping, assessment, and restoration Knowledge Platform & Geoportal (Nov 2026) An open-access, interactive hub designed to support knowledge exchange and evidence-based decision-making. It will remain online for at least five years after the project ends to ensure longterm legacy
Delivery Roadmap
Mapping & Ecological Assessment Technical foundations for identifying where to act
• Oct 2026: Habitat Mapping – State of Play (D2.1) • Apr 2027: Release of Mapping Technologies (D2.2) and Condition Indicators aligned with GES (D2.4) • Apr 2027: Critical Gap Analysis on data collection (D8.1) • Oct 2027: Methodology for Favourable Reference Areas (D2.5)
Ecological Restoration: Protocols & Scalability
From theory to on-the-ground action • Dec 2026: Systematic Review of restoration measures (D3.1) • Apr 2027: Revised and optimized Restoration Protocols (D3.2) • Oct 2027: Evaluation of Upscaling Potential (D3.3)
Sustainability & Policy Integration
Economic Analysis
Ensuring financial viability for restoration projects: • Oct 2027 : Habitat-specific cost estimates (D2.3) and the Cost Analysis Guide (D4.3)
Spatial Planning
Strategic tools for policymakers: • Dec 2027 : Guidelines for Spatial Prioritisation and integration into MSP (Maritime Spatial Planning) (D5.1/D5.2) • Apr 2028 : Feasibility Support Document (D8.2), validated by commissions
Synthesis & Legacy
• Nov 2026 : Launch of the Knowledge Platform (D7.3) • Feb 2028: Release of the LIFE-MAPPER Manual (D6.1) • Apr 2028: Replicability Guidelines & Final Synthesis (D6.2/D6.3)
LIFE-MAPPER Project Coordination & Management: Data Management Plan
(FAIR Data) from April 2026
