SPACEwetland to Monitor Wetland Restoration Using Satellites

SPACEwetland develops satellite-based methods to monitor wetland restoration in Sweden. Using case studies from Jönköping and Västerbotten counties, the project integrates satellite data, field observations, and analytical tools to provide authorities with improved decision-support for climate mitigation and nature conservation.

Sweden is investing substantial resources in wetland restoration to reduce climate impacts, enhance biodiversity, and restore natural hydrology. However, there is currently a lack of cost-effective and comparable methods for assessing whether restoration measures achieve their intended effects over time.

Within the SPACEwetland project, satellite-based approaches are developed and tested to monitor wetland recovery following restoration. Time series from radar and optical satellite data are combined with field data and machine learning methods to derive indicators describing changes in water levels and vegetation. The methods are evaluated in two contrasting regions, Jönköping and Västerbotten counties, to ensure robustness across different climatic conditions and landscape types.

The project will produce an open and reproducible analytical workflow and harmonised wetland datasets that can be used by County Administrative Boards, the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, and municipalities for the systematic monitoring and evaluation of wetland restoration measures. IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute leads the scientific work and, together with Karlstad University and the University of Gothenburg, is responsible for method development, validation, and alignment with environmental objectives, policy needs, and practical implementation.

The project contributes to improved environmental outcomes by strengthening the scientific basis for decision making and supports several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to climate action, ecosystems, and biodiversity.