What do you mean, “seascape restoration”? Definitions and global practice

Abstract Introduction Restoration of marine ecosystems is scaling up, fuelled by the growing recognition of the ecological and socio‐economic benefits sustained by nature and the need to recover what has been lost or degraded. Parallel to this, there is an increasing trend toward “multi‐species,” “multi‐habitat,” and “seascape” restoration projects. Despite increasing term usage, definitions of terms are seldom provided and there is uncertainty about where the “seascape restoration” projects are occurring and how they are evaluated. Objectives This research sought to examine the use of the emerging term “seascape restoration,” identify core elements and assess instances of “seascape restoration” projects. Methods A paired literature review and global survey of restoration practitioners and researchers was conducted. Results The literature review of papers up to July 2024 revealed a two‐fold increase in use of the term “seascape restoration” over the preceding decade, with only one study defining the term. The survey completed by 229 marine restoration professionals identified core elements of seascape restoration being the coordinated restoration of multiple habitat types, increasing system resilience, habitat connectivity, and human–nature relationships. The survey revealed a trajectory of increasing uptake of seascape restoration approaches. However, despite connectivity, resilience, and social benefits being identified as core elements, across 58 reported projects these dimensions were rarely incorporated into evaluation. Monitoring instead focused predominantly on short‐term structural and physical changes. Conclusions This pattern suggests that while the language of seascape restoration is advancing, its defining principles are not yet consistently embedded in practice.