Using a survey‐based approach to measure the reclamation and ecological restoration economy. A practical case from western Canada

Abstract Ecological restoration has gained unprecedented attention as a response to global crises such as ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss. However, the socio‐economic benefits and monetized outputs of restoration activities remain difficult to measure and are insufficiently integrated into scientific research and policy frameworks. Survey‐based approach can help bridge this knowledge gap by collecting data directly from restoration practitioners and companies. The survey was developed as a pilot study in Western Canada, specifically in Alberta and British Columbia, to capture key information on company profiles, human and financial resources, skills and expertise, policy drivers, and the types of restoration activities. Based on responses from 144 respondents, the results indicate that both provinces have a well‐established network of restoration practitioners, primarily consultants, regulators, industry and NGO's, with a wide range of activities and skills. Also, the results indicate 2056 employees working at least part‐time and 1488 full‐time equivalent positions in Alberta and at least 1522 employees, representing a total of 419 full‐time equivalent positions in British Columbia. In both provinces, business units' range in size from one person to 400 employees with a wide range of revenues and expenditures, from less than CAD $50,000 to more than CAD $100 million per year. Notably, over 80% of respondents expected a similar or increased workload in the coming years. Practical implications: End‐user surveys provide a valuable tool to capture data needed to measure the socio‐economic contributions of this emerging sector. Although the results offer only a limited snapshot of the activities and expertise involved, they highlight the growing strength of the restoration economy and the need for more comprehensive analyses at the provincial and national levels to fully capture its potential.