The European Union’s Nature Restoration Law (NRL), adopted in August 2024, sets ambitious goals to restore 20% of degraded ecosystems by 2030 and all ecosystems in need by 2050. This initiative emphasizes restoring wetlands, forests, grasslands, rivers, and marine areas while integrating nature-based solutions to address climate change and biodiversity loss. However, these actions should align with the ongoing National Energy and Climate Plans (NEPCs), which regulate how EU countries will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, use more renewable energy like wind and solar and save energy, and the Common Agricultural Policy Plans (CAP), which focus on how farming and rural areas can be made more sustainable. These plans help farmers adopt eco-friendly practices, protect nature, and make sure that food production doesn’t harm the environment.

Therefore, some of the ecosystem preservation and recovery actions required by the NRL might already be covered under the CAP and NECP frameworks. This is why my research aimed to investigate the measures currently in place to ensure that NRL reporting complements these efforts. Instead of duplicating actions, the NRL reporting should identify and fill gaps or highlight and implement entirely new initiatives.

Research Findings. The study reveals a significant gap between the EU's climate and environmental targets and the implementation of effective measures, particularly in land use, agriculture, and renewable energy integration. While some EU countries align NECPs and CAP Plans with NRL targets, many lack detailed, actionable strategies, especially for pollinator restoration, marine ecosystems, and urban greening. To meet the 2030 and 2050 goals, policymakers must enhance cross-plan integration, allocate resources effectively, and ensure robust, targeted measures in all areas. Hereafter are some more detailed results!

Synergies and GapsCAPs have shown particular strength in managing habitats like wetlands and forests connected to agricultural areas. They promote practices that protect soil health, maintain water quality, and support diverse landscapes. However, these plans often lack specificity in their measures. On the other side, NECP plans set specific goals and actions to implement Renewable Energy and, for instance, decarbonization of the transport sector, but lack a detailed impact of such actions on the natural and urban environment.

Addressing Pollinator Decline

Both NECPs and CAPs aim to reduce pesticide use and promote biodiversity, but they fall short when addressing one of the most pressing ecological issues: the decline of pollinators. Pollinators, like bees and butterflies, play a vital role in pollinating flowering plants and many crops, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Without them, agricultural yields would reduce even more drastically, leading to food shortages and higher prices. While both plans hint on the need to reduce pesticide use, neither includes explicit strategies for reversing pollinator decline by 2030. This is an urgent gap that must be filled to protect the future of agriculture and food security in Europe and beyond.

Urban Ecosystems and Greening Initiatives

Another area where both plans need improvement is urban ecosystems. Urban greening—such as planting trees, creating parks, and enhancing green infrastructure—is crucial for restoring biodiversity and making cities more resilient to climate change. Yet, urban greening is barely mentioned in the NECPs or the CAPs. With the introduction of the NRL, EU countries now have an opportunity to establish clear urban greening initiatives within the NRL reporting. These could include ensuring no net loss of green spaces, promoting urban-rural linkages, and integrating nature into city planning. Such efforts would benefit people and the planet by creating healthier, more sustainable urban environments.

Marine and Freshwater RestorationTo marine and freshwater ecosystems, the CAPs offer more detailed actions for sustainable water management and agricultural practices that can help restore rivers and protect coastal areas. For instance, the NRL sets a target of restoring 25,000 kilometers of free-flowing rivers. While the NECPs address some aspects of river basin management, CAPs take a more comprehensive approach to freshwater management. Aligning these efforts with the EU’s Marine Strategy Framework Directive, which focuses on reducing pollution and restoring marine biodiversity, could amplify their positive impact on water resources and marine ecosystems.

Forest Restoration and Carbon Sinks

The NRL’s focus on forests and wetlands restoration is another critical area where synergy between the plans could make a big difference. Forests and wetlands are not only valuable habitats for wildlife but also vital carbon sinks that help mitigate climate change. However, many NECPs lack detail on nature-based solutions related to afforestation and forest and wetlands management. CAPs include measures for forest conservation and agroforestry but need to be more ambitious and specific. Restoration efforts should prioritize increasing forest connectivity, enhancing deadwood levels, and planting trees in targeted areas. These steps would improve biodiversity while also boosting forests’ and wetlands capacity to store carbon.

Why a Nature Resoration Law is Necessary to Balancing Nature and ProgressThe stakes could not be higher. Ecosystem restoration is not just about protecting nature for its own sake; it is also about ensuring a healthy planet for future generations. Ecosystems provide essential services, such as clean air and water, fertile soil, and climate regulation. They also support economic activities, from agriculture to tourism, and contribute to human well-being in countless ways. By committing to the ambitious goals of the NRL, the EU is showing the will to balance environmental protection with circular economic and social progress.

Moving Forward: Aligning Plans for SuccessHowever, achieving these goals will require coordinated action and clear strategies. The gaps identified in NECPs and CAPs highlight the need for better alignment between these plans and the NRL’s objectives. This includes developing explicit strategies for pollinator conservation, establishing urban greening initiatives, and enhancing restoration efforts in forests, rivers, and marine areas. The NRL’s reporting framework will play a crucial role in tracking progress and ensuring that all EU countries contribute to the shared goals. Through policy-driven action and international cooperation, it is possible to heal the planet and create a sustainable future not only for Europe, for the World.

You can read about all the details of my study in the full paper here.