EU Parliament approves contested nature restoration plan

Despite months of protests by farmers across Europe, the controversial nature restoration plan has passed in the European Parliament, with 329 in favor and 275 against, and 24 abstentions. The new legislation aims to restore at least 20% of EU’s land and sea natural areas by 2030 and all ecosystems in need by 2050. Approval from the European Parliament is followed by the Council’s final adoption. National governments must then implement it. Member Morten Løkkegaard highlighted the challenging negotiations, while recognizing farmers’ concerns and the need for urgent action. Christel Schaldemose and WWF expressed relief and urged collaboration across sectors to address the biodiversity crisis, as emphasized by Environment Minister Magnus Heunicke who views the approval as a significant win for European nature.