Impakter
  • FINANCE
    • ESG News
    • Sustainable Finance
    • Business
  • TECH
    • Start-up
    • AI & Machine Learning
    • Green Tech
  • Environment
    • Biodiversity
    • Climate Change
    • Circular Economy
    • Energy
  • Industry News
    • Entertainment
    • Fashion & Lifestyle
    • Food and Agriculture
    • Health
    • Politics & Foreign Affairs
    • Philanthropy
    • Science
    • Sport
  • Editorial Series
    • SDGs Series
    • Shape Your Future
    • Sustainable Cities
      • Copenhagen
      • San Francisco
      • Seattle
      • Sydney
  • About us
    • Company
    • Team
    • Global Leaders
    • Partners
    • Write for Impakter
    • Contact Us
    • Privacy Policy
No Result
View All Result
  • FINANCE
    • ESG News
    • Sustainable Finance
    • Business
  • TECH
    • Start-up
    • AI & Machine Learning
    • Green Tech
  • Environment
    • Biodiversity
    • Climate Change
    • Circular Economy
    • Energy
  • Industry News
    • Entertainment
    • Fashion & Lifestyle
    • Food and Agriculture
    • Health
    • Politics & Foreign Affairs
    • Philanthropy
    • Science
    • Sport
  • Editorial Series
    • SDGs Series
    • Shape Your Future
    • Sustainable Cities
      • Copenhagen
      • San Francisco
      • Seattle
      • Sydney
  • About us
    • Company
    • Team
    • Global Leaders
    • Partners
    • Write for Impakter
    • Contact Us
    • Privacy Policy
No Result
View All Result
Impakter
No Result
View All Result
Home Environment Climate Change

EU Nature Restoration Law: A Turning Point for Biodiversity

Despite center-right opposition, the European Parliament has passed a contested law to restore degraded natural ecosystems, preserving crucial environmental measures.

byTaida Nando
July 18, 2023
in Climate Change, Environment
European Parliament plenary session during the voting on the nature conservation law

EP Plenary session - Voting session

Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Wednesday marked a groundbreaking moment as the European Parliament passed the ambitious EU Nature Restoration Law. The law’s passage marks a significant milestone in safeguarding our planet’s environment for future generations.

Surviving The Knife-Edge Vote

On Wednesday, a vote occurred regarding the revised law regarding the revised EU Nature Restoration Law. Following a tight race, there were 336 votes in favour, 300 against, and 13 abstentions. Before the vote, a motion to reject the entire legislation had also failed to gain enough support for passing.

The result of the dramatic nature restoration vote, which prompted loud applause from the progressive MEPs, signaled a triumph in fighting climate change.  The vote prompted loud applause from the progressive MEPs and signified a triumph for environmental conservation. Despite the stiff opposition, the law emerged stronger, encompassing ecological and economic considerations.

Before the vote, several EPP members including Ireland’s Frances Fitzgerald broke ranks to support the bill.

“I cannot in good conscience and good faith vote against this law,” Fitzgerald said in a video on Twitter. “We need to protect biodiversity. We need this law to protect our citizens, our businesses, and, above all, the future generations,” she added.

Ahead of todays’s vote on the #NatureRestorationLaw I wanted to explain why I am supporting this important piece of legislation 🌿 pic.twitter.com/coVkYHmKXJ

— Frances Fitzgerald MEP (@FitzgeraldFrncs) July 12, 2023

Nature Restoration Law: A Turning Point for Biodiversity Preservation

The EU Nature Restoration Law is a comprehensive proposal that outlines Europe’s restoration goals. The law includes binding targets to rehabilitate at least 20% of Europe’s degraded ecosystems by 2030. This regulation provides a framework for managing restoration efforts and establishes binding targets in various areas, such as farmlands, peatlands, and marine ecosystems, and reverses the damage inflicted by human activity and climate change. Moreover, the law is in conjunction with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Share of protected land and marine waters (as Natura 2000), 2020 (thousand km²) Photo Credit: EEA / European topic centre on biodiversity / European Commission; Eurostat.

The EU Nature Restoration Law prioritises biodiversity preservation and restoring degraded natural habitats, laying the foundations for a sustainable future. By implementing restoration measures, Europe hopes to mitigate the effects of human activity and restore balance to the natural habitats. In June 2022, the European Commission presented the law, which gained significance following COP15’s landmark biodiversity deal in December. In 2021, 81% of EU ecosystems were deemed “poor” or “bad” by the European Environment Agency and Greenpeace.

Overcoming Right-Wing Opposition: A Triumph for Environmental Conservation

There has been a heated debate and opposition campaign surrounding the nature restoration law in the past few months, which scientists criticised as misleading. The European People’s Party (EPP), the largest formation in parliament, has been the main opposition. The EPP claimed that the current law would jeopardise the livelihoods of European farmers and fishers, disrupt established supply chains, reduce food production, increase consumer prices, and even replace urban areas with green spaces.

“Less land for farmers, less sea for fishermen, less activity for businesses, and fewer European products and jobs for our citizens,” said Rosanna Conte, an Italian MEP from the Identity and Democracy group, during a heated debate on Tuesday.

Despite fierce opposition, scientists remained steadfast in refuting the idea that nature restoration had adverse effects on food production and the economy. In an open letter signed by 6000 scientists, it was stated that such claims “not only lack scientific evidence but even contradict it.” They point to studies demonstrating that the restoration of nature would enhance food security, strengthen fisheries, generate employment opportunities, and save money. They have remained adamant that by restoring ecosystems, Europe can promote sustainable agriculture, mitigate the risk of natural disasters, improve natural resource management, and support local communities.

Those in favour of the proposal have also pointed to how it sets the stage for widespread action to restore ecosystems in need on both land and sea. Supporters such as Virginijus Sinkevicius claim that European countries can ensure their national restoration plans whilst ensuring food security as the benefits for farmers will be many. This approach recognises a dedication to restoring Europe’s nature by 2050.

A vibrant European bee collecting pollen from a flower.
Photo by Danny Kroon on Unsplash

Building a Sustainable Future: Collaboration and Implementation

The EU Nature Restoration Law serves as a rallying call for international collaboration and concerted action. While some celebrate the victory, supported by companies like Nestle and Danone, others view Wednesday’s vote as a hollow triumph for left-wing parties.


RELATED ARTICLES: | EU Unveils Law to Halt Biodiversity Loss and Improve Food Systems | Why We Need a Legal Definition for ‘Greenwashing’ |


MEPs substantially weakened the original proposal of the commission. For instance, the European Parliament eliminated requirements for agricultural land that involved the restoration of peatlands. Manfred Weber, chairman of the EPP group, has already expressed his intention to bring new elements to the negotiating table. These include elements such as an emergency break in case food prices shoot up.

Balancing Economic and Environmental Interests thanks to the Nature Restoration Law

Despite tireless opposition, balancing economic and environmental interests is vital for the legislation’s success. The real work, however, lies in the implementation of the law’s provisions. Active participation from policymakers, scientists, and communities will also be crucial in achieving ensuring ecosystems and food security

Wednesday’s vote, although a slim victory, marks a step in the right direction for preventing biodiversity loss. Had the vote not passed, those who opposed the rejection would have sent the text back to the commission. The passage of the EU Nature Restoration Law is a defining moment for Europe’s global leadership in environmental protection.

“I want to especially thank the scientists and the youth because they convinced us that we need to have this law. And we’re going to have it!” said César Luena, a Spanish politician of the Spanish SocialistWorkers’ Party (PSOE)

Negotiations for the new nature law will take place between the EU countries and the European Parliament. Those on the left-right political spectrum will have to agree before it can be passed as law. Luckily, the negotiations may be made easier due to the Parliament’s similar stance to that of the EU countries. According to Pascal Canfin, the European Parliament environment committee chair, talks between EU institutions will commence on July 19.

The legislation sets a roadmap for restoring forests, agricultural ecosystems, and damaged habitats, providing a clear direction. By implementing the law, Europe can confidently lead by example and fulfill its commitment to the global biodiversity framework’s goals.


Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed here by the authors are their own, not those of Impakter.com. — In the Featured Photo: EP Plenary session – Voting session. Featured Photo Credit: European Parliament

Tags: European Parliamentgreen economyNature ConservationNature Restoration Law
Previous Post

Uncertainty Looms Over 2026 Commonwealth Games as Victoria Cancels Hosting Plans

Next Post

A Just Transition Does Not Leave Anyone Behind: Clean Energy Must Be Worldwide

Taida Nando

Taida Nando

Taida, a native of Zimbabwe's Savanna nation, holds a History degree from the School of African and Asian Studies. In her spare time, she delves into research on sustainability, healthcare, and social justice politics. Beyond her academic pursuits, she embraces a life of adventure, travelling the world, experimenting with vegan recipes, and immersing herself in the realm of psychological fiction.

Related Posts

Climate disasters insurance
Business

Burned Out: How Privatised Risk Is Failing Victims of Climate Disasters

July 8, 2025
climate disinformation
Environment

Climate Disinformation Is Derailing Action: What Can Be Done?

July 7, 2025
wildfire pollution water
Environment

Pollution From Wildfires Can Contaminate Our Water for up to 8 Years, Study Finds

July 3, 2025
Next Post
A Just Transition Does Not Leave Anyone Behind: Clean Energy Must Be Worldwide

A Just Transition Does Not Leave Anyone Behind: Clean Energy Must Be Worldwide

Recent News

ESG news regarding UN council to vote on fossil fuel phase-out, Monzo fined £21 million, Texas floods expose FEMA collapse, Amazon carbon creditors tied to deforestation

UN Passes Motion to Vote for the Phase-Out of Fossil Fuels

July 8, 2025
Climate disasters insurance

Burned Out: How Privatised Risk Is Failing Victims of Climate Disasters

July 8, 2025
1 Million Jobs at Risk if EU Rolls Back 2035 EV Target

1 Million Jobs at Risk if EU Rolls Back 2035 EV Target

July 8, 2025

Impakter informs you through the ESG news site and empowers your business CSRD compliance and ESG compliance with its Klimado SaaS ESG assessment tool marketplace that can be found on: www.klimado.com

Registered Office Address

Klimado GmbH
Niddastrasse 63,

60329, Frankfurt am Main, Germany


IMPAKTER is a Klimado GmbH website

Impakter is a publication that is identified by the following International Standard Serial Number (ISSN) is the following 2515-9569 (Printed) and 2515-9577 (online – Website).


Office Hours - Monday to Friday

9.30am - 5.00pm CEST


Email

stories [at] impakter.com

By Audience

  • TECH
    • Start-up
    • AI & MACHINE LEARNING
    • Green Tech
  • ENVIRONMENT
    • Biodiversity
    • Energy
    • Circular Economy
    • Climate Change
  • INDUSTRY NEWS
    • Entertainment
    • Fashion & Lifestyle
    • Food and Agriculture
    • Health
    • Politics & Foreign Affairs
    • Philanthropy
    • Science
    • Sport
    • Editorial Series

ESG/Finance Daily

  • ESG News
  • Sustainable Finance
  • Business

Klimado Platform

  • Klimado ESG Tool
  • Impakter News

About Us

  • Team
  • Global Leaders
  • Partners
  • Write for Impakter
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy

© 2025 IMPAKTER. All rights reserved.

No Result
View All Result
  • FINANCE
    • ESG News
    • Sustainable Finance
    • Business
  • TECH
    • Start-up
    • AI & Machine Learning
    • Green Tech
  • Environment
    • Biodiversity
    • Climate Change
    • Circular Economy
    • Energy
  • Industry News
    • Entertainment
    • Fashion & Lifestyle
    • Food and Agriculture
    • Health
    • Politics & Foreign Affairs
    • Philanthropy
    • Science
    • Sport
  • Editorial Series
    • SDGs Series
    • Shape Your Future
    • Sustainable Cities
      • Copenhagen
      • San Francisco
      • Seattle
      • Sydney
  • About us
    • Company
    • Team
    • Global Leaders
    • Partners
    • Write for Impakter
    • Contact Us
    • Privacy Policy

© 2024 IMPAKTER. All rights reserved.