What is the primary aim of ecological restoration?

The primary aim of ecological restoration is to return degraded ecosystems to a stable state, which involves reestablishing the structure, function, and diversity that were lost due to human activities or natural disturbances. This process is crucial because many ecosystems provide essential services, such as clean water, biodiversity, and climate regulation. By restoring these ecosystems, the goal is to achieve ecological balance, improve habitat for native species, and ultimately enhance the resilience of the ecosystem to future disturbances.

In contrast, creating new ecosystems might result in unintended consequences and doesn't necessarily address the degradation of existing environments. Similarly, developing urban areas focuses on human infrastructure rather than ecological health, and enhancing agricultural production, while important for food security, does not directly pertain to the restoration of ecological integrity in compromised ecosystems. Thus, the correct choice aligns closely with the core principles and objectives of ecological restoration practices.