Reverse auction for forest habitat restoration in Flanders

This case study tests a reverse auction mechanism to cost-effectively fund habitat restoration in forested hunting areas across Flanders, Belgium. The initiative targets biodiversity enhancement through improved forest management, leveraging the Jaachfonds as a potential long-term funding source. Piloted in rural and peri-urban zones, the discriminatory price auction involves forest owners, hunters (Hubertus), Vervening Vlaanderen, and the Flemish Agency for Nature and Forest (ANB). The approach complements existing subsidies and land use planning, aiming to increase efficiency in ecosystem service provision while engaging key stakeholders. The project supports sustainable forest management and the umbrella effect for endangered species.