Correct Answer: Both assertion and reason are correct, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Solution : The correct answer is (a) Both assertion and reason are correct, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Ecosystem restoration involves activities aimed at reversing or mitigating the damage done to ecosystems and habitats. By restoring degraded ecosystems, we can improve their health, functionality, and ability to provide essential services such as clean air and water, climate regulation, nutrient cycling, and habitat for biodiversity. Restoring ecosystems contributes to sustainable development by ensuring the long-term availability of these services and promoting the well-being of both human populations and the environment.

The reason provided correctly explains why ecosystem restoration is vital for sustainable development. Degraded ecosystems, which have experienced habitat loss, pollution, or other forms of damage, are indeed less resilient and less capable of supporting biodiversity and providing ecosystem services.

Degradation often disrupts the balance and functioning of ecosystems, leading to a decline in biodiversity, a decrease in ecosystem services, and a reduction in the overall resilience of the ecosystem. Ecosystem restoration aims to reverse this degradation and enhance the capacity of ecosystems to recover, support biodiversity, and provide essential services.

Therefore, both the assertion and the reason are correct, and the reason provides the correct explanation for the assertion.