EU-level biodiversity policies
Land is more likely to be biodiverse if it is in a healthy state – i.e., protected from desertification and land degradation.
Here, we provide an outline of two key EU policies relating to biodiversity:
1. Nature Restoration Law
2. EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030
Nature Restoration Law
Binding targets to restore degraded ecosystems, including agricultural soils.
Find out more by clicking here.
Relevant objectives & targets:
- Legally protect 30% of EU land and 30% of EU sea by 2030.
- Strictly protect 10% of land and sea (e.g., old-growth forests).
- Plant 3 billion trees by 2030.
Policy significance: Links biodiversity and climate goals with concrete land restoration actions relevant to combating desertification.
EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030
Comprehensive EU strategy to halt biodiversity loss.
Click here to find out more.
- By 2028, all Member States must establish national soil monitoring systems.
- By 2050, ensure that all EU soils are in healthy condition.
- Require reporting every 5 years on soil health indicators (e.g., erosion, organic carbon, sealing).
Policy significance: Reinforces the ecological basis for drought resilience and soil stability.
Wider Policy resources
Pilot area sites: In addition to examining efforts to combat desertification on an EU-level, policy-related work is also happening in the TERRASAFE pilot areas. Here, we are examining the national and regional policies addressing the drivers and impacts of desertification in their area, and the enablers required to scale up our innovations and ensure their broader adoption. Stay tuned for more findings.
