Bonn, Germany – According to the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN), a significant step forward in European environmental policy has been achieved with the official entry into force of the EU Regulation on Nature Restoration on August 18, 2025. This landmark regulation aims to put biodiversity on a path to recovery across the continent, addressing the urgent need to restore degraded ecosystems. The BfN has marked this occasion by presenting a series of recommendations to guide the implementation of this critical legislation, emphasizing the importance of coordinated international efforts to achieve lasting impact on nature, conservation, biodiversity, ecosystems, environment, restoration, and sustainability.
The EU Regulation on Nature Restoration represents a cornerstone of the European Green Deal, which has been driving environmental and climate policy momentum in recent years. The regulation sets binding targets for member states to restore at least 20% of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030, with a long-term goal of restoring all ecosystems in need by 2050. This ambitious framework is designed to reverse the decline of natural habitats and species, many of which have been under threat due to human activity, climate change, and habitat loss. The BfN underscores that the regulation is not just a policy document but a call to action for governments, organizations, and communities to prioritize nature restoration as a fundamental component of sustainable development.
The BfN’s recommendations focus on practical steps to ensure the regulation’s success. These include the development of national restoration plans that align with EU targets, the integration of restoration efforts into existing environmental policies, and the mobilization of adequate funding to support large-scale projects. The agency also highlights the need for robust monitoring and reporting mechanisms to track progress and address challenges. By fostering collaboration among member states, the BfN believes that the EU can set a global standard for biodiversity protection and ecosystem recovery, demonstrating how collective action can yield tangible results in combating environmental degradation.
A key aspect of the regulation is its emphasis on specific ecosystems, such as wetlands, forests, and marine environments, which play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance. The BfN notes that restoring these areas will not only benefit wildlife but also enhance ecosystem services like carbon sequestration, water purification, and flood prevention, which are vital for human well-being. For instance, the agency points to the potential restoration of peatlands as a priority area. Peatlands, which cover only a small fraction of Europe’s land but store vast amounts of carbon, are often degraded due to drainage for agriculture or peat extraction. Restoring them could significantly contribute to climate goals while supporting unique wildlife populations.
To bolster its recommendations, the BfN draws on scientific expertise and data from across Europe, emphasizing that approximately 81% of EU habitats are currently in poor condition, according to recent assessments. This alarming statistic underscores the urgency of the regulation and the need for immediate action. The agency also advocates for engaging local communities and stakeholders in restoration projects to ensure long-term sustainability and public support. By involving farmers, landowners, and indigenous groups, restoration efforts can be tailored to regional needs while fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the environment.
One specific example highlighted by the BfN is the potential revival of riverine ecosystems through the removal of obsolete dams and barriers. Such projects, already underway in some member states, have shown promising results in restoring fish migration routes, particularly for species like the Atlantic salmon, which have seen significant population declines. These initiatives serve as a model for how targeted interventions can yield broader ecological benefits, enhancing both ecosystems and community resilience to environmental challenges.
The BfN’s involvement in this process reflects its broader mission to provide scientific and administrative support for nature conservation at both national and international levels. As a key advisor to the German government, the agency is committed to ensuring that Germany plays a leading role in meeting the EU’s restoration targets. This includes advocating for policies that balance economic development with environmental protection, ensuring that future generations inherit a healthier planet. The agency also calls for increased public awareness and education campaigns to highlight the importance of restoration efforts, encouraging citizens to participate in local conservation activities.
The entry into force of the EU Regulation on Nature Restoration is a pivotal moment for Europe’s environmental future. With the BfN’s guidance and the collective commitment of EU member states, there is hope that degraded landscapes and seascapes can be revitalized, paving the way for a more sustainable and biodiverse continent. For more information, visit Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN).