Environmental ministers in the European Union issued warnings about the bloc’s credibility in addressing global biodiversity and climate crises following the decision to shelve the Nature Restoration Law. The law, aimed at restoring habitats and protecting biodiversity, faced opposition from member states after recent farmer protests over its requirements.
Despite initial approval by the European Parliament, the law encountered resistance, with some countries expressing concerns about its economic impact on the agriculture sector. Farmer protests, starting in France and spreading to other nations like Spain, Belgium, and Italy, influenced policymakers’ decisions. Hungary’s opposition to the law, allegedly politically motivated, drew criticism, with accusations against President Viktor Orbán.
Irish Minister for the Environment Eamon Ryan lamented the potential consequences of shelving the law, warning of the collapse of political ambition and credibility on climate and biodiversity issues. Environmental groups echoed concerns about the EU’s reputation and leadership in tackling these crises.
Despite the setback, EU Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius and other leaders expressed optimism about continuing negotiations on the law. Belgium’s Minister for Climate Change, Alain Maron, assured efforts to find solutions and reintroduce the law for adoption, emphasizing ongoing commitment to addressing biodiversity and climate challenges.
The fate of the Nature Restoration Law remains uncertain, but there are hopes for its revival before the EU elections in June. As discussions continue, stakeholders stress the importance of upholding the EU’s international commitments to combat biodiversity loss and climate change.
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