The Nature Restoration Law (NRL)
In June 2024, the EU Council formally approved the Nature Restoration Law, requiring Member States to restore at least 30% of degraded habitats by 2030, 60% by 2040 and 90% by 2050.
On 17 June 2024, the EU Council officially approved the Nature Restoration Law (NRL), with 329 votes in favour, 275 against and 24 abstentions. With over 80% of European habitats in poor condition, the law aims to restore degraded ecosystems across all Member States, contributing to the EU's climate and biodiversity goals while improving food security.
Targets and Obligations
EU countries are required to restore at least 30% of the habitats covered by the law — from forests, grasslands and wetlands to rivers, lakes and coral beds — from poor to good condition by 2030, rising to 60% by 2040 and 90% by 2050. By 2030, priority must be given to Natura 2000 areas, and Member States must submit national restoration plans, regularly updated and subject to monitoring and periodic reporting to the European Commission.
- Funding through European programmes such as LIFE, Horizon Europe and cohesion funds.
- Reversal of biodiversity loss and improved soil and water quality.
- Creation of green jobs in conservation, environmental management and sustainable tourism.