n a crucial move to address climate change and preserve biodiversity, the European Union is set to implement restoration measures covering at least 20% of its land and sea areas by 2030, as urged by Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). Additionally, the European Parliament adopted its position on the proposed Regulation setting ecodesign requirements for sustainable products. After an extensive debate, the Parliament adopted its stance on the EU Nature Restoration law, with 336 votes in favor, 300
against, and 13 abstentions. While a vote to reject the Commission’s proposal did not pass (312 votes
to 324 and 12 abstentions), MEPs are emphasizing the significance of ecosystem restoration in
mitigating the adverse effects of climate change, safeguarding biodiversity, and enhancing food
security.
Parliament highlights the law’s crucial role in fulfilling the EU’s international commitments,
notably the UN Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity framework. They support the Commission’s
proposal to establish restoration measures by 2030, encompassing at least 20% of all land and sea
areas within the EU.
The law’s application will be contingent on the Commission providing data on conditions ensuring long-term food security and EU countries quantifying the area required for restoration in each habitat type. Flexibility is allowed to postpone targets under exceptional socioeconomic circumstances. Parliament is now poised to engage in negotiations with the Council to finalize the legislation’s shape.
On 12 July, the European Parliament has also adopted its position on the proposed Regulation setting
ecodesign requirements for sustainable products. Generally, the parliament strengthened the measures proposed by the Commission to ensure longer product lifespans and better information for consumers. The parliament endorsed the planned product passport. The text also asks the Commission to prioritise
the setting of ecodesign rules to iron, steel, aluminium, textiles, furniture, tyres, detergents, paints,
lubricants and chemicals. The text still needs to be finalised by the Council
Source – Intergraf August 2023