In a closely-watched session, the European Parliament narrowly passed the Nature Restoration Law with 336 votes in favour
This also includes 300 against, and 13 abstentions, leading to applause from progressive MEPs, setting the stage for challenging negotiations.
The Nature Restoration Law, a comprehensive proposal to restore 20% of Europe’s degraded ecosystems by 2030, survived a critical vote in the European Parliament by a razor-thin margin.
Despite the opposition, the amended law received enough support to move forward.
This marks a huge step in progress regarding our environment and commitments to safeguarding it.
The controversial Nature Restoration Law and opposition campaign
The Nature Restoration Law, presented by the European Commission in 2022, gained significance following the biodiversity deal at COP15.
However, it faced staunch opposition, particularly from right-wing parties such as the European People’s Party (EPP), who claimed it would harm traditional livelihoods, disrupt supply chains, and increase consumer prices.
These assertions were widely challenged by left-wing groups, NGOs, climate scientists, and businesses supporting the compatibility of nature restoration with human activity.
This environmental legislation stirred a controversy also led to a deeply divided European Parliament.
A hard-fought victory for environmental progress
The parliamentary debate on Tuesday and the subsequent tight margin in Wednesday’s vote revealed irreconcilable factions. Notably, some conservative MEPs broke ranks with the EPP, demonstrating their willingness to negotiate and give the law a chance.
Amid the split, Renew Europe, the liberal group, proposed an amendment reflecting the position of member states in the EU Council, which aimed to find common ground and bridge internal differences.
Uncertain negotiations ahead for the European Parliament
With the Nature Restoration Law approved by the European Parliament, the next step involves negotiations between MEPs and member states to refine the provisions and reach a compromise text.
However, the success of these talks remains to be determined, given the prolonged controversy surrounding the law. The negotiations are expected to be protracted and divisive, with significant challenges ahead.
The Nature Restoration Law’s survival marks significant step
The NRL and it’s survival in the European Parliament marks a significant step toward rehabilitating Europe’s ecosystems.
Despite the narrow margin of victory, the law will now undergo negotiations and amendments to address concerns and find a middle ground.
The outcome of these negotiations will shape the law’s final version and determine the future of nature restoration efforts in Europe.
