IUCN expressed its concern regarding the progression of the European Commission’s proposal in light of its importance for nature, for people, for the economy and for a prosperous and resilient future. Biodiversity in Europe is facing dramatic declines, while the effects of climate change are being felt increasingly, putting communities at risk, both in terms of health and employment. This is primarily due to such climate change-related threats as floods, wildfires and drought. It is clear that many industries, especially agriculture and forestry, depend on nature as an ally to prevent and adapt to these proliferating impacts caused by climate change.

When the nature restoration law proposal was first tabled on 22 June 2022, IUCN welcomed the binding targets for the restoration of nature, as a central pillar of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the Farm to Fork Strategy. The proposal would also be a vital step for the implementation of the EU’s international commitments under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework following CBD COP15 in December 2022. Without a meaningful and targeted regulation for the restoration of nature, the ambition expressed under these crucial policies would be heavily undermined. 

The European Commission's proposal is currently being reviewed and amended by EU Member States and Members of the European Parliament. The Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Committee of the European Parliament is due to vote on its amendments to the proposal in mid-June.

IUCN therefore calls on the European Parliament, the European Commission and the Presidency of the Council of the European Union to work together to ensure that an ambitious Nature Restoration Law is adopted later this year.

For further information, contact Alberto Arroyo Schnell, Senior Manager: Policy and Programme, European Regional Office, IUCN

IUCN letter to the President of the European Commission

IUCN letter to the President of the European Parliament

IUCN letter to the Prime Minister of Sweden