The law that officially came into effect on Sunday, 18 August, is a critical step in fulfilling the EU’s international biodiversity commitments under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
The legislation sets a goal for EU member states to implement restoration measures on at least 20% of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030, expanding to all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050. This includes maintaining and increasing urban green spaces, reversing the decline in pollinators, and enhancing biodiversity in agricultural and forest ecosystems.
Each member state is required to develop a national restoration plan, tailored to their specific needs, with clear milestones for 2030, 2040, and 2050. These plans must include timelines, financial resources, and expected benefits, and be developed transparently with public and stakeholder participation.
The European Commission will support and review these national plans, with the European Environment Agency providing regular progress reports. Member states have two years to submit their draft plans to the Commission and must finalize them within six months after receiving feedback.
The law also encourages member states to secure necessary funding from both public and private sources, including EU funds, to ensure the successful implementation of these ambitious restoration targets.
