A coalition of 200 NGOs has called on the EU to ensure its proposed Nature Restoration Law (NRL) does not lose key elements such as the restoration of agricultural ecosystems, complemented by dedicated targets for the restoration of drained peatlands. As the law nears finalisation, the NGOs, including RSPB and Pesticide Action Network, say it is essential that it remains “fit for purpose” during political negotiations. This includes the final text of the law making sure all terrestrial and marine habitats are covered by quantified, time-bound and enforceable targets in and outside Natura 2000 areas, a network of nature protection areas in the territory of the EU. They also say the NRL must contain provisions for dedicated and additional funding to finance restoration measures. Sabien Leemans, Senior Biodiversity Policy Officer at WWF European Policy Office: “This summer has once again left many Europeans desperate and extremely vulnerable to the immediate effects of climate change. What more signs do we need to finally act? Large-scale nature restoration will save lives. It will protect us all from the worst consequences of floods, droughts and wildfires. By saving our ecosystems, we are saving ourselves.”
Nature is our best ally in the era of global boiling.
200 NGOs call on EU leaders to adopt a game-changing law to save Europe's citizens, economy & environment – the Nature Restoration Law.
Our fight for the #RestoreNature law continues!
Read more 👉 https://t.co/4ZEuK4Xeao pic.twitter.com/fNY06X1bi5
— WWF EU (@WWFEU) October 3, 2023
