REBORN – Remediation of Ecosystems through BIOtechnology for the Regeneration of Nature

HORIZON-CL6-2025-01-ZEROPOLLUTION-04

Overview

The REBORN project aims to support the implementation of the Zero Pollution Action Plan and the Nature Restoration Law by developing, integrating, and demonstrating bio-based and nature-based solutions (Bb/NbS) for the remediation and regeneration of degraded ecosystems (soil, sediment, surface and groundwater). These ecosystems are affected by hazardous chemicals, pharmaceuticals, plastics, and other waste-related pollutants, often exacerbated by climate change and natural disasters.

Building on cutting-edge environmental biotechnology and enhanced by digital innovation and AI-based modelling, REBORN will deliver a portfolio of tested, efficient, and sustainable remediation solutions, with applications in both long-term pollution contexts and emergency scenarios (e.g. fire, floods, contamination incidents).

Through strong stakeholder engagement—including public authorities, scientific institutions, technology providers, and citizens—REBORN will foster uptake and integration of these solutions into local restoration plans, supporting long-term resilience, biodiversity restoration, and ecosystem health.

 Objectives

• To develop integrated bio-based and nature-based remediation solutions, validated across real-life polluted sites.

• To use biotechnologies (e.g., microbial consortia, enzymatic treatments, plant-microbe interactions) to remediate pollution and restore functionality in degraded ecosystems.

• To incorporate AI-enabled models and digital tools for real-time monitoring, optimisation, and deployment of remediation actions, including in emergency contexts.

• To assess the environmental, economic, social, and safety risks and benefits, including impacts on human health and circularity potential.

Expected Impacts

• Improved capacity of public authorities and local actors to implement nature-based and bio-based remediation solutions.

• Validated remediation tools and digital models for polluted soil, water and sediments, even under emergency conditions.

• Reduced risks to human and environmental health, with specific attention to vulnerable groups.

• Stronger integration of remediation solutions into local ecosystem restoration plans.

• Contribution to EU policy goals, including the Zero Pollution Action Plan, Biodiversity Strategy, Nature Restoration Law, and Circular Economy principles.