A new conservation law aimed at returning habitats to their natural state took effect on Sunday, as declared by the European Commission. The German Press Agency (dpa) reports that this law mandates the EU to restore a minimum of 20 percent of its land and sea areas by 2030, and all ecosystems requiring restoration by 2050, through activities such as reforestation, rewetting peatlands, and restoring rivers to their natural, free-flowing conditions. This legislation has sparked controversy, especially due to concerns about significant restrictions on farmers. The EU Commission stated that member states will determine which specific actions to take within their own territories. According to EU data, approximately 80 percent of habitats are in a degraded state. Additionally, 10 percent of bee and butterfly species face the threat of extinction, and 70 percent of soil is in a poor condition.
Text: Lara Palmer
18.08.2024
Legislation targets 20% restoration of EU land and sea areas by 2030, amid farmer concerns