EU nature restoration regulation: Setting binding targets for healthy ecosystems

As announced in the EU biodiversity strategy for 2030, on 22 June 2022 the European Commission tabled a proposal for a nature restoration regulation. The proposed regulation would set multiple binding restoration targets and obligations across a broad range of ecosystems, from forests and agricultural land to urban areas, rivers and marine habitats, complementing other existing legal instruments. Altogether, these nature restoration measures should cover at least 20 % of the EU's land and sea areas by 2030, and all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050. Member States would be required to develop nature restoration plans to reach these targets at national level. While nature restoration enjoys strong public support, the proposal has raised concerns among stakeholders as regards the enforceability and achievability of the targets, the economic and social implications, the protection of property rights and the financial support for restoration. The European Parliament adopted its position on the proposed regulation on 12 July 2023. The Council adopted its general approach on the file on 20 June 2023. Interinstitutional negotiations concluded on 9 November 2023 with a provisional agreement substantially amending the Commission's original proposal. The agreed text, endorsed by Member State representatives on 22 November 2023, and by the ENVI committee on 29 November 2023, now awaits formal adoption by Parliament and the Council. The vote in plenary is scheduled during the February II session. Fourth edition. The 'EU Legislation in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages in the legislative procedure.