The MAF-WORLD COST Action will hold a training school on “Bridging Ecology and Economics: valuation and restoration of Animal Forests” as part of Working Group 6.

Animal forests are key for biodiversity, biogeochemical cycles, fisheries and tourism but are often neglected in economic assessments and marine policy. This course aims to close that gap by combining ecological knowledge, economic valuation and practical restoration methods.

The programme includes sessions on ecological economics, biophysical accounting, ecosystem service valuation, and case studies on marine contexts, plus practical activities on coral reef restoration and ex-situ conservation. A visit to the Portofino Marine Protected Area is planned.

The training runs from 15–19 September 2025 at the Aquarium of Genoa, Italy. Applications close on 10 August 2025. Limited travel funding is available for eligible participants.

More information here.