Announcement by the Climate Protection Minister creates clarity for the historic opportunity for nature conservation. In any case, the legal framework is adhered to.
Vienna (OTS) – ÖKOBÜRO – Alliance of the Environmental Movement welcomes the decision of Climate Protection Minister Leonore Gewessler to approve the EU renaturation law. The EU renaturation law is thus receiving new momentum in the critical phase before a possible vote. Approval is legally possible because there is no longer a uniform statement from the states that would have bound the minister. The minister’s responsibility is also legally impeccable. Gregor Schamschula, environmental lawyer at ÖKOBÜRO: “The core of the legal problem was the uniform statement from the federal states, which is no longer available. Without this, the minister is free to give her consent in the Council of the EU.
“
The EU Renaturation Act is a crucial step towards achieving the global sustainability goals (SDGs). Given the alarming fact that over 80 percent of species and habitats protected under European law are not in a favorable conservation status, restoring nature is more urgent than ever. By 2030, restoration measures should be in place on at least 20 percent of the EU’s land and marine areas, which will be expanded to all EU ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050.
Renaturation measures are not only essential for biodiversity and the preservation of our natural resources, but they also offer a wide range of benefits for society and the economy. These measures:
- Promote biodiversity and create habitats for flora and fauna.
- Contribute to safe harvests and food security.
- Protect people’s health and well-being through cleaner air and water and the recreational function of natural spaces.
- Increase the quality of the soil and thus also food production.
- Reduce flood risks and the potential for damage from extreme weather events.
According to calculations by the EU Commission, the renaturation efforts will also have a positive economic impact. This affects, for example, agricultural yields, as pollinator services and soil and water quality improve, but also tourism, which relies on the beauty of nature and the landscape.
“Renaturation is not just a necessity, but an opportunity that goes far beyond nature conservation
“says Schamschula.”It brings back more healthy, livable and sustainable living space for people and nature. Austria’s approval of the EU renaturation law is a clear signal that we are ready to take our responsibility for nature and future generations seriously.
“
Questions & Contact:
ÖKOBÜRO – Alliance of the environmental movement
University lecture Mag. Gregor Schamschula
Environmental lawyer, head of legal department
0699 106 56 303
gregor.schamschula@oekobuero.at
www.oekobuero.at