RestoreRight
RestoreRight transforms the climate challenge of wetland restoration by using precision sulphate application to reduce methane emissions by up to 40% while preserving biodiversity benefits. Our nature-based solution makes wetland restoration a win-win for both climate and conservation, turning Europe's largest ecosystem restoration effort into a powerful climate mitigation tool.
Dani O'Brien
Wageningen University
International Land and Water Management
Over het initiatief / About the initiative
In welke fase zit jouw initiatief? / In what stage is your initiative?
Uitgewerkt conceptfase
Heb je jouw initiatief al gevalideerd? / Did you validate your initiative?
Our validation process includesthe following: Scientific Foundation: Built on extensive peer-reviewed research (Gauci et al. 2004-2005, Ury et al. 2024) demonstrating proven methane reduction mechanisms in wetland environments. Expert Consultation: Engaged with wetland restoration specialists, biogeochemists, and conservation organisations to refine the technical approach and ensure ecological compatibility. Preliminary Site Assessment: Conducted feasibility studies on potential pilot locations, analysing soils, hydrology, and baseline methane emissions to validate applicability. Stakeholder Interest: Received positive feedback from land managers, conservation groups, and potential carbon credit buyers who see the value in climate-positive restoration. Regulatory Review: Consulted with environmental agencies to ensure compliance with EU Nature Restoration Law requirements and water quality regulations.
Meer informatie over jouw initiatief / More info about your initiative
The Challenge We’re Solving Europe’s new Nature Restoration Law mandates massive wetland restoration, but these vital ecosystems produce significant methane emissions—190 Tg globally per year. This creates a climate paradox: while wetlands store carbon and support biodiversity, they also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions that could offset their climate benefits.
Our Innovative Solution RestoreRight leverages natural biogeochemical processes by strategically applying sulphate compounds to restored wetlands. Sulphate acts as an alternative electron acceptor for microorganisms, redirecting them away from methane production without disrupting the ecosystem’s ecological functions.
How It Works
- Precision Application System: Time-release sulphate delivery calibrated to wetland dynamics
- Smart Monitoring: Real-time tracking of water chemistry, greenhouse gas fluxes, and biodiversity indicators
- Adaptive Management: Dosage adjustment based on seasonal changes and local conditions
- Environmental Safeguards: pH buffering and mercury monitoring to prevent negative side effects
Proven Science Behind the Solution Our approach is based on peer-reviewed research showing sulphate can reduce methane emissions by 21-42% in natural wetlands. Historical data reveals that industrial sulphate pollution unintentionally suppressed 10-15 Tg of methane emissions annually from 1940-2000, demonstrating the potential of controlled application.
Wat is er anders/nieuw aan jouw idee/oplossing t.o.v. bestaande oplossingen? / What is different/new about your idea/solution compared to existing solutions??
Working WITH Nature, Not Against It Unlike traditional emission reduction technologies that suppress natural processes, RestoreRight enhances natural biogeochemical cycles. We redirect existing microbial pathways rather than eliminating them, maintaining ecosystem health while reducing emissions.
First Targeted Solution for Restoration-Related Emissions Existing methane reduction focuses on agriculture or industrial sources. We’re the first to specifically address the emerging challenge of restoration-induced emissions, turning a climate liability into an asset.
Precision Application Technology Current approaches use broad-scale interventions. Our system provides:
- Site-specific dosing based on real-time monitoring
- Seasonal adaptation to wetland dynamics
- Integration with existing water management infrastructure
- Fail-safe mechanisms to prevent over-application
Dual Benefit Integration Traditional solutions require choosing between climate and biodiversity goals. RestoreRight delivers both simultaneously, making it economically viable for large-scale implementation under EU restoration mandates.
Carbon Market Integration We’ve designed the system to qualify for emerging carbon credit frameworks, creating financial incentives for widespread adoption—something missing from purely regulatory approaches.
Scalable Pilot-to-Implementation Pathway Unlike theoretical solutions, we’ve developed a practical roadmap from pilot sites to continental-scale deployment, with partnerships ready for immediate testing and scaling.
Wat zijn jouw volgende stappen om het verder te ontwikkelen? / What are your next steps to develop the initiative?
Phase 1: Pilot Site Establishment (Months 1-4)
- Secure 3-5 pilot locations across different wetland types and climatic conditions
- Install comprehensive monitoring equipment for baseline data collection
- Develop partnerships with local land managers and conservation organisations
- Obtain necessary environmental permits and regulatory approvals
Phase 2: Technology Development (Months 2-6)
- Design and prototype precision application delivery systems
- Develop real-time monitoring dashboard and data analytics platform
- Create standardised protocols for different wetland contexts
- Build quality control systems for sulphate compounds and application rates
Phase 3: Field Testing and Validation (Months 4-10)
- Implement controlled trials with varying application rates and timing
- Collect comprehensive data on methane reduction, water quality, and biodiversity
- Refine application protocols based on field results
- Conduct independent scientific review of results
Phase 4: Business Model Development (Months 6-12)
- Develop carbon credit certification process and economic framework
- Create partnership agreements with restoration organisations and land managers
- Design scalable implementation model for broader deployment
- Prepare intellectual property protection and commercialisation strategy
Phase 5: Expansion Preparation (Months 10-12)
- Publish peer-reviewed results from pilot studies
- Develop training programs for implementation teams
- Create standardised equipment specifications for manufacturing partners
- Establish regulatory pathway for broader European deployment
Wat heb je nodig om (nog meer) impact te maken met dit initiatief? / What do you need to make (more) impact with this initiative?
Financial Investment:
- Research & Development: Advanced monitoring equipment, laboratory analysis, prototype development
- Pilot Site Operations: Site preparation, materials, field staff, data collection systems
- Technology Development: Software platform, application system engineering, quality control
- Business Development: Partnership development, regulatory compliance, market preparation
Strategic Partnerships
- Research Institutions: Access to advanced analytical capabilities and scientific credibility
- Conservation Organisations: Pilot site access and restoration expertise (Natuurmonumenten, Staatsbosbeheer)
- Technology Partners: Precision agriculture companies for application system development
- Regulatory Bodies: RIVM, provincial water authorities for compliance and approval pathways
Technical Expertise and Talent
- Biogeochemist: A specialist for process optimisation and monitoring
- Engineer: System design and implementation oversight
- Business Development Manager: Partnership cultivation and market development
Infrastructure and Equipment
- Precision Application Equipment: Prototype development and field testing systems
- Advanced Monitoring Network: Automated gas flux measurements, water quality sensors
- Data Management Platform: Cloud-based system for real-time monitoring and optimization
Market Access and Validation
- Carbon Credit Certification: Integration with emerging voluntary and compliance markets
- Regulatory Approval Pathway: Clear route to large-scale implementation under EU restoration requirements
- Early Adopter Network: Committed land managers willing to implement pilot program
Long-term Vision for Impact With these resources, RestoreRight could reduce methane emissions from European wetland restoration by 25-40%, equivalent to removing 500,000-800,000 cars from the road annually while supporting the EU’s goal of restoring 20% of land and sea areas by 2030. This positions Europe as the global leader in climate-positive ecosystem restoration, creating a model for worldwide implementation.