NatureMetrics supported InverBosques and Trafigura in implementing a comprehensive soil eDNA monitoring program across their vast project area and focused on the infomation that can be gathered in the already planted land. Our role began with designing a strategic sampling plan to capture biodiversity data from five distinct ecosystem types: degraded savannas, petroferric savannas, Eucalyptus plantations (both seedling and clone), and natural forest reference sites. This approach enabled crucial comparisons between degraded, restored, and target ecosystems. We provided easy-to-use eDNA sampling kits and trained local teams, ensuring efficient and standardised data collection across the expansive project area. We used eDNA metabarcoding to analyse 50 soil samples, identifying fungi and other soil organisms present in each sample and generating a comprehensive inventory of soil biodiversity across the different ecosystem types.

To provide deeper ecological insights, we developed custom fungal functional profiles, assessing the ecological roles of detected fungi and offering a nuanced understanding of soil health and ecosystem functionality beyond simple species lists. To help InverBosques interpret the complex biodiversity data and track changes over time, we created clear data visualisations and reports, including radar plots showing shifts in fungal functional groups across ecosystem types. Throughout the project, we provided ongoing support and consultation, helping InverBosques integrate eDNA data with other monitoring efforts and use the insights to inform their restoration strategies, ultimately contributing to the success of this ambitious reforestation initiative.

The eDNA monitoring program has significantly influenced the afforestation/restoration project, providing scientific validation of their soil restoration approach. The data offers concrete evidence that their efforts are successfully increasing soil biodiversity and shifting the ecosystem towards a more forest-like state, supporting their innovative "restoration bridge" concept of using Eucalyptus as a transitional species. Insights from the fungal functional profiles are informing and optimising restoration strategies, such as guiding decisions on when and where to introduce native tree species based on the development of mycorrhizal networks.

This comprehensive biodiversity data enhances InverBosques' and Trafigura’s impact reporting capabilities, strengthening carbon credit verification processes and enabling more robust calculations of biodiversity net gain. The implementation of regular eDNA monitoring over time  will support adaptive management, ensuring the project remains on track to achieve its biodiversity and carbon sequestration goals. Clear, visual representations of soil biodiversity improvements also facilitate effective communication of the project's positive impacts to investors, local communities, and environmental regulators.

The success of the initial eDNA monitoring has led to an expanded collaboration. Beginning this autumn, the project will collect 80 additional soil samples, factoring in tree species and plantation age. Aquatic eDNA sampling will also be introduced alongside traditional fish netting methods, providing a more comprehensive view of biodiversity across both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

The efficiency and comprehensiveness of eDNA monitoring make it feasible to track biodiversity across the entire 190,000-hectare project area, a crucial factor for large-scale restoration initiatives. Beyond the immediate project, the data gathered contributes to the broader scientific understanding of ecosystem recovery in tropical savannas, potentially informing restoration efforts on a global scale. The decision to expand the study underscores the partners' commitment to data-driven restoration and highlights the value of eDNA technology in guiding and verifying large-scale ecosystem recovery projects.