The European Union has taken a significant step towards environmental sustainability by approving the Nature Restoration Law, a historic first which obliges member states to restore nature, not just protect it. The law, which was proposed by the EU Commission almost two years ago, aims to repair at least 20% of degraded ecosystems by 2030 and all of them by mid-century, including agricultural lands.The law was almost derailed due to opposition from some EU countries and agricultural organizations, but was ultimately passed after Austria’s Environment Minister, Leonore Gewessler, voted in favor of the legislation. This decision came despite a rift in the Austrian government, with Chancellor Karl Nehammer stating that Gewessler’s vote was illegal and threatening to appeal to the European Court of Justice. The passage of the law was a contentious issue, with farmers and conservatives fearing significant changes to agricultural practices and food production in the EU.Despite these concerns, the EU environment ministers validated the law, which is expected to be a crucial measure in achieving the EU’s goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2050. The approval of the Nature Restoration Law marks a significant victory for environmental groups and has been described as ‘historic’ by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The law is expected to be officially published within a week and will come into effect 20 days later, making the provisions effective.
Key points
- The EU has approved the Nature Restoration Law, aiming to restore 20% of degraded ecosystems by 2030.
- Austria’s Environment Minister Leonore Gewessler’s vote was crucial after she defied her government’s stance, leading to the law’s passage.
- Chancellor Karl Nehammer has criticized Gewessler’s decision and threatened legal action, highlighting internal political conflict.
- Environmental groups celebrate the law as a historic victory, while farmers and conservatives express concerns over its impact.
Contradictions👾While the law has been approved, there is still opposition from various member states and agricultural organizations.
👾Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer claims that Environment Minister Leonore Gewessler’s vote was illegal, despite her decision to vote in favor of the law.
