Nature Restoration Law stirs up controversy

On Tuesday, February 27th, the European Parliament passed the Nature Restoration Law. This is a significant step towards restoring European ecosystems, right?! Opinions are divided. After all, the Netherlands voted against the bill. Less than a month later, the EU dropped the law from the agenda, effectively freezing the law’s final approval.

In the Netherlands, the agricultural sector is concerned about the law's potential impact, questioning its effectiveness and clarity. In contrast, environmental interest groups applaud the legislation, believing it will enhance the livability of the Dutch landscape. Who’s right?

Targets vs. Guidelines
The law replaces targets with guidelines, raising concerns about implementation. How does this work? As an analogy, the speed limit guideline in urban areas is 30 km/h, but at the same time it allows you to speed up to 60 km/h past children in the neighborhood.

The Nature Restoration Law sets ambitious goals for the EU: restoring at least 30% of habitats - from forests and grasslands to lakes, rivers, and coral reefs - to good condition by 2030 and restoring all ecosystems in need by 2050.

Do you still get it? We’re feeling a bit lost in the weeds of this explanation. However, we’re always keen to learn more.