EU Environmental Council (finally) greenlights the Nature Restoration Law
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A landmark for nature – and people!
After two years of discussion and negotiations, we celebrate an historic achievement for nature! On June 17, 2024, the Nature Restoration Law (NRL) was finally adopted by the EU Environmental Council, representing the world's first-ever law of this kind.
© Luke Vodell - Unsplash
A roller coaster of negotiations
Since June 2022, the NRL’s journey was a roller coaster, facing an unmatched opposition and disinformation campaign in the European Parliament. Even at its very last voting stage, there was a high risk of rejection. However, during the final vote in the Environmental Council, the law gained supported and was adopted at last. EU Member States honoured their commitments to climate and biodiversity protection, with a majority of 20 countries officially endorsing the law. Special recognition goes to Austria’s Environment Minister Leonore Gewessler who played a pivotal role in securing the law by reversing Austria’s previous stance at the last minute.
© Baskin Creative Studios – Pexels
This historic achievement marks a victory for people, rivers and the species that inhabit and depend on them. Overall, it provides the necessary legal framework to reverse decades of ecological degradation. By setting clear targets to restore our lands and waterways, it ensures a common effort for resilient and vibrant ecosystems for future generations.
