The European Union EU Council has finally approved legislation that seeks to restore Europe’s damaged ecosystems and boost diversity.
In what is described as historic by nature lovers and activists, the law proposes to restore at least 20 per cent of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030, and all degraded ecosystems by 2050.
The first of its kind in the European continent, the NATURE RESTORATION LAW is comprehensive and sets rules for the EU member states.
Member states have welcomed the legislation, German environment minister Steffi Lemke in an interview as published in the German News Service newsletter of 17th Monday 2024, described it a crucial step for a healthy environment in Europe.
I have very much welcome that EU member states have today adopted the regulation on nature restoration. An intact nature is the web that supports us all
German minister for the Environment, Nature Conservation,Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection-Steffi Lemke
The law passed Monday 17th June 2024, has been controversial and its passage described momentous. It received the required majority backing due to a change in Austria’s stance. The European Commission proposed it in June 2022 and its journey to its passage this week has been tumultuous.
Sections of Europe opposed it on grounds that it will impact negatively on farmers livelihoods push food prices and disrupt supply chains.
Farmers protest across Europe last November derailed its debate following its earlier approval in July 2023 after intense lobbying.
The online publication on European news euronews.com reports of celebrations across Europe by environmental organisations following its passage. Brussels region Environment minister Alain Maron said the law will repair and help return the environment to its natural state.
There is no time for a break in protecting our environment. Today, the Council of the EU is choosing to restore nature in Europe, thereby protecting its biodiversity and the living environment of European citizens.
Brussels Region Environment Minister-Alain Mason
| NATURE RESTORATION LAW |
| Provides for binding targets and obligations for EU member states to restore natural habitats |
| Prioritises protection of wetlands, rivers, forests,grassland,urban and marine ecosystems for enhanced carbon capture and storage |
| Prevent and reduce impact of natural disasters by increasing biodiversity |
| Boost food security through restoration of an improved ecosystem that supports water cycle, promotes clean air, and enables pollination of crops. |
Its passage coincides with the upcoming UN biodiversity conference later in the year and it will serve as a demonstration that Europe is committed in efforts to tackle the biodiversity crisis.