EU Nature Restoration Law: A Crucial Step Towards the Restoration of Our Ecosystems
On June 17, 2024, the EU adopted the Nature Restoration Law, a comprehensive piece of legislation that promotes the protection and restoration of ecosystems across Europe while helping to tackle the biodiversity and climate crises. This law, the first of its kind in Europe, is a central component of the EU Biodiversity Strategy and sets binding targets to restore degraded ecosystems, particularly those that play a vital role in carbon sequestration and disaster mitigation.
Why Do We Need the Nature Restoration Law?
Intact nature is the net that supports us all. The diversity of species and the services provided by ecosystems are essential for our livelihoods and well-being. However, the condition of Europe’s natural environment is alarming: more than 80% of habitats are in poor condition, and one-third of bee and butterfly species are at risk of extinction. Restoring wetlands, rivers, forests, grasslands, and marine ecosystems is crucial for increasing biodiversity and securing vital ecosystem services.
The law goes beyond environmental protection; it is an integral part of the EU’s climate adaptation strategy, as intact ecosystems help mitigate the impacts of climate change and enhance Europe’s resilience. They support the EU’s autonomy by preventing natural disasters and reducing risks to food security.
What Specific Goals Does the Nature Restoration Law Include?
The law contains clear and binding targets to ensure the long-term recovery of nature in Europe. By 2030, at least 20% of the EU’s land and marine areas are to be restored, and by 2050, all ecosystems in need of restoration should be rehabilitated. The specific goals include:
- Protection and Restoration of Habitats: The aim is to restore and improve habitats such as wetlands, forests, and grasslands, promoting biodiversity through the creation and expansion of habitats.
- Conservation of Pollinators: The decline of pollinator populations is to be reversed by 2030, supported by a monitoring system for regular assessment of pollinator populations.
- Restoration of Forest Ecosystems: Enhancing forest biodiversity through the promotion of deadwood, uneven-aged forests, and better connections between forest areas.
- Green Cities: Urban ecosystems will be strengthened by maintaining and expanding green spaces. There will be no net loss of urban greening by 2030.
- Agricultural Ecosystems: Promoting butterfly populations and farmland birds, improving organic carbon content in soils, and enhancing areas with high landscape diversity.
- Marine Ecosystems: Protecting the habitats of key species such as dolphins, sharks, and seabirds, as well as restoring seagrass beds and sediment bottoms that contribute to climate mitigation.
- Free-Flowing Rivers: By 2030, 25,000 kilometers of European rivers are to be restored to a free-flowing state by removing barriers.
Implementation and Monitoring of the Law
EU member states are required to submit national restoration plans by 2026, detailing how they will achieve the law’s targets. Progress will be monitored through reports prepared by the European Environment Agency, which will be reviewed by the Commission and presented to the EU Parliament and the Council.
A Vision for Europe’s Future
The Nature Restoration Law is a crucial step towards preserving intact nature in Europe, both on land and at sea. This regulation is an investment in our future, as only a healthy environment can provide the essential services that protect and sustain us—from clean water to climate adaptation. With its ambitious goals and commitment to restoring 20% of the EU’s land and marine areas by 2030, the law brings Europe closer to a green, sustainable future.
The Nature Restoration Law enhances the quality of life for citizens and strengthens resilience against future environmental crises. This legislation is a vital investment in the health of our planet and society—for the benefit of future generations.