In June 2022, the European Commission published its long-awaited proposal for an EU Nature Restoration Law.  It’s the first European-wide law to set legally-binding targets to restore biodiversity and degraded ecosystems, in particular those with the most potential to capture and store carbon and to prevent and reduce the impact of natural disasters. WWF welcomed this ambitious and strong legal proposal, but highlighted a few shortcomings.

Following its publication, the discussion on the proposal moved to the European Parliament and Member States as part of the EU’s co-decision process. WWF, together with other NGOs, had been working closely with both institutions to improve the text. However, an unprecedented disinformation campaign led by conservative and right-wing politicians resulted in a highly politicised and polarising debate around the legislation. 

Thanks to the successful, NGO-led #RestoreNature campaign, which received wide endorsement from various stakeholders, the proposal gathered a tight majority both in the Council and the European Parliament in the summer of 2023.

Together, we defended the EU Nature Restoration Law from being entirely rejected by the European Parliament. We scored a key win and the first EU law to bring nature back to our continent is now within reach. But our fight continues! 

Our aim is to ensure that the final negotiations, called ‘Trilogues’, lead to the adoption of the Nature Restoration Law that effectively tackles the devastating impacts of climate change and biodiversity decline. In the current context, it is essential for Europe to adopt robust legislation, truly protecting its citizens and nature from the worst effects of climate change and nature loss. 

Let’s #RestoreNature, all around Europe!