In force since 18 August, the Regulation requires Member States to recover degraded ecosystems and stem the effects of climate change
EU Regulation 2024/1991 is the first European Union law dedicated to nature restoration.
In force since 18 August 2024, it requires member states to take measures to restore degraded ecosystems, protect biodiversity and stop the loss of urban greenery.
This set of rules aims not only to protect marine and terrestrial ecosystems, but also to improve the quality of life in European cities, helping to combat the effects of climate change.
The regulation provides for a continuous recovery process of ecosystems and more sustainable agricultural production.
Member States will have to adopt National Plans to identify the necessary measures, considering the different regions.
The approval of the Plans will take place in two phases: research and monitoring, followed by the quantification of the habitats to be restored and the identification of the necessary resources.
The Plans will have to include cities and peri-urban areas and will be submitted to the European Commission for assessment by 1 September 2026.
The European Environment Agency will monitor implementation. States will integrate expenditure into national budgets, with the support of EU funding such as the LIFE programme.
