Bonn, Germany – According to the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN), a significant step forward in European environmental policy has been marked by the official entry into force of the EU Regulation on Nature Restoration on August 18, 2025. This landmark regulation aims to address the pressing need for biodiversity recovery across the continent, a critical issue managed in collaboration with international agencies and member states. The BfN has taken this occasion to present a series of recommendations to support the implementation of this regulation, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts to restore ecosystems and protect nature, biodiversity, ecosystems, restoration, environment, conservation, and sustainability.
The EU Regulation on Nature Restoration is a cornerstone of the European Green Deal, which has driven significant momentum in environmental and climate policy over recent years. This regulation establishes binding targets for member states to restore degraded ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands, which are vital for maintaining biodiversity and combating climate change. The BfN underscores that approximately 80% of habitats in Europe are currently in poor condition, a statistic that highlights the urgency of this initiative. The regulation mandates that by 2030, restoration measures must be in place for at least 30% of degraded terrestrial and marine habitats, with an increase to 60–100% by 2050, depending on the ecosystem type.
In its recommendations, the BfN stresses the need for a holistic approach to restoration, one that integrates ecological, social, and economic considerations. This includes prioritizing areas with high biodiversity value and ensuring that restoration projects are designed to provide long-term benefits for both nature and local communities. For instance, the BfN points to the potential of restoring peatlands, which not only support unique species but also act as significant carbon sinks, contributing to climate change mitigation. An example of such efforts can be seen in the ongoing restoration of the Mecklenburg Lake Plateau, where collaborative projects aim to rehabilitate wetland areas to support endangered bird species like the Eurasian curlew while enhancing water retention in the region.
The BfN also highlights the importance of international cooperation in achieving these ambitious targets. The regulation aligns with global frameworks such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which calls for the protection and restoration of ecosystems worldwide. By working with international partners, the BfN aims to share best practices and leverage expertise to ensure that restoration efforts are both effective and scalable. This collaborative spirit is evident in recent workshops hosted by the BfN, where European experts discussed strategies to integrate nature-based solutions into urban and rural planning, further amplifying the impact of the regulation.
Moreover, the BfN emphasizes the role of public awareness and stakeholder engagement in the success of nature restoration. Educating communities about the benefits of healthy ecosystems—such as improved air and water quality, enhanced recreational opportunities, and increased resilience to natural disasters—is crucial. The agency advocates for transparent communication and the inclusion of local populations in decision-making processes to foster a sense of ownership over restoration projects. This approach not only builds trust but also ensures that initiatives are tailored to the specific needs and cultural contexts of different regions.
To bolster these efforts, the BfN has also called for adequate funding and resources to support member states in meeting their restoration obligations. The agency notes that while the EU has allocated significant funds under the European Green Deal, additional investments will be necessary to address the scale of the challenge. For instance, a recent estimate suggests that restoring just 20% of priority habitats in Germany alone could cost upwards of 1.5 billion euros over the next decade, underscoring the financial commitment required for such endeavors.
As Europe embarks on this transformative journey, the BfN remains committed to providing scientific expertise and policy guidance to ensure the success of the Nature Restoration Regulation. The agency’s recommendations serve as a roadmap for balancing ecological recovery with societal needs, paving the way for a more sustainable future. The coming years will be critical in demonstrating how coordinated action across borders can reverse biodiversity loss and secure the natural heritage of the continent for generations to come.
For more information, visit Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN).