The final text will now be negotiated. The aim is to reach a deal before EU Parliament elections in 2024
Members of the European Parliament (MEP) on July 12, 2023, voted to pass the EU nature restoration law with 336 votes in favour, 300 against and 13 abstentions, according to a statement by the law-making body.
The final text will now be negotiated. The aim is to reach a deal before EU Parliament elections in 2024, according to news agency Reuters.
The development came after weeks of campaigning, with parties deeply polarised over the issue. The European People’s Party (EPP), was especially opposed to the law on the grounds that it was detrimental to both farmers and food security.
Countries that are part of the European Union, are required to restore 20 per cent of their land and sea by 2030 under the law. Some 81 per cent of the European continent’s natural habitats are classified as being in poor health, according to Reuters.
The statement quoted César Luena, lead negotiator:
The Nature Restoration Law is an essential piece of the European Green Deal and follows the scientific consensus and recommendations to restore Europe’s ecosystems. Farmers and fishers will benefit from it and it ensures a habitable earth for future generations.
Luena added:
Our position adopted today sends a clear message. Now we must continue the good work, defend our ground during the negotiations with member states and reach an agreement before the end of this Parliament’s mandate to pass the first regulation on nature restoration in the EU’s history.
He also tweeted from his personal handle: “Collective and social victory in the European Parliament. The approval of our position on the Nature Restoration Law is good news for nature, the Member States and itself.”
The European Commission introduced the law on June 22, 2022. An amended version of the law faced deadlock as the Committee on Environment, Food Safety and Public Health (ENVI) rejected the proposal on June 27, 2023.
“I am extremely happy and relieved!! The Parliament just voted in favour of the Nature Restoration Law! Better for nature and better for farmers. Nature restoration is about our children, our planet and our future,” MEP Mohammed Chahim tweeted.
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