An introduction to the principles and practice of ecological restoration. The causes of ecosystem degradation and practical measures for enhancement, restoration and creation are examined using actual case studies. We review methods and outcomes of restoration in a wide diversity of ecosystems to illustrate contrasting problems and approaches to solving them. Aquatic systems include shallow eutrophic lakes and rivers, coral reefs and intertidal habitats; consideration of terrestial systems emphasizes lowland heathland, coastal beaches and dunes, woodland and forest, and remote tropical islands. Three field trips to contrasting projects based in East Anglia will give first-hand experience of restoration in action, as well as illustrating work at different stages and in different habitats.