The European Parliament has approved a new law aimed at restoring and safeguarding natural habitats and ecosystems, with a mandated target for EU countries to implement measures to restore at least 20% of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030, and for all ecosystems in need of rebuilding by 2050. The legislation passed with a narrow majority of 329 votes in favor, 275 against, and 24 abstentions, despite initial opposition from the European People’s Party (EPP), citing concerns over its impact on farmers, bureaucratic burdens, and reporting requirements.
Last year, the proposed law faced significant challenges, with the EPP leading a campaign against it, alleging threats to food security, agriculture, and clean energy and climate goals. To secure approval, the legislation underwent several revisions, including the addition of provisions ensuring it does not hinder renewable energy projects deemed vital to the public interest and mandating the EU Commission to provide guidance on conditions necessary for long-term food security.
Despite opposition, the proposed Nature Rebuilding Law, introduced by the European Commission in June 2022 to facilitate the sustained recovery of degraded ecosystems and contribute to the EU’s biodiversity and climate objectives, narrowly avoided rejection in the European Parliament. The legislation now advances to the negotiation stage between Parliament and the EU Council.
The law encompasses various targets aimed at promoting and restoring biodiverse habitats, reversing the decline of pollinating insect populations, preserving urban green spaces, rehabilitating depleted peatlands used for agriculture, and rejuvenating marine environments. Member states will be required to develop restoration plans, aiming to restore at least 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030, increasing to 60% by 2040, and 90% by 2050.
Additionally, the legislation mandates measures to address the decline of pollinators, restore depleted peatlands, prevent significant degradation of restored areas, and enhance urban green spaces. The law also includes provisions for an “emergency brake” to suspend agricultural ecosystem targets if they jeopardize adequate food production for EU consumption. The legislation awaits adoption by the EU Council, following which member states will have two years to develop their initial nature restoration plans.
ComplianceXL stands poised to support EU member states in navigating the intricacies of the newly approved Nature Rebuilding Law, providing tailored consulting services to ensure timely and effective implementation. With a focus on sustainable development and biodiversity preservation, ComplianceXL offers expertise in crafting restoration plans that meet the ambitious targets set forth by the legislation. By leveraging our guidance, member states can navigate the complexities of regulatory compliance, enhance ecological resilience, and contribute meaningfully to the EU’s overarching environmental objectives. Together, we can pave the way for a greener, more resilient future across European landscapes and seascapes.
