27 February 2024, Lower Saxony, Neu Bleckede: Two storks search for food in a meadow. The first storks have returned from their winter quarters in the Elbe Valley. Photo Credit: picture alliance via Getty Images
Environment European UnionRestoring Land and Seas Across the Region
The European Parliament recently adopted a law to restore degraded ecosystems across the bloc.
“Today is an important day for Europe, as we move from protecting and conserving nature to restoring it. […] I would like to thank scientists for providing the scientific evidence and fighting climate denial and young people for reminding us that there is no planet B, nor plan B,” says César Luena, a Spanish member of the European Parliament.
It is estimated that over 80 per cent of European habitats are in poor shape. Under the EU nature restoration law, 20 percent of the European Union’s land and sea areas will be restored by 2030, 60 percent will be restored by 2040, and 90 percent is set to be restored by 2050. Furthermore, three billion trees will be planted in the region and 25,000 kilometers worth of river will return to free-flowing waters. The newest law is expected to help achieve the EU’s climate and biodiversity objectives and enhance food security throughout the bloc. The law passed with 329 member votes in favour of adoption.
