Europe (Washington Insider Magazine) – The European Union has passed a historic nature restoration law, committing member states to revitalizing at least 20% of the bloc’s land and sea by 2030. The legislation, approved by 20 of the 27 member states, overcame opposition from countries like Finland, Hungary, and Italy, while Belgium abstained.
The law sets binding targets for habitat restoration, aiming to combat climate change, protect biodiversity, and restore ecosystems. Austria’s last-minute support for the bill, despite previous resistance, secured its passage, angering coalition partners. National restoration plans must be submitted, and progress will be reviewed in 2033.
Environmental groups, including the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), hailed the law’s adoption as a “massive victory” for nature and citizens across Europe.
