Brussels: In a late-stage bid to rescue the European Union’s pivotal policy aimed at rejuvenating damaged ecosystems, a consortium of 11 nations, spearheaded by Ireland, has stepped forward. This move comes amid mounting apprehensions that the legislation could face abandonment following the EU elections slated for June.
The proposed law stands as one of the EU’s most significant environmental initiatives, mandating member states to enact measures to rehabilitate nature across a fifth of their terrestrial and marine territories by the year 2030.
Originally slated for approval in March, the policy’s progress was halted when Hungary’s unexpected withdrawal of support tipped the delicate balance of votes in favor of the legislation.
“Restoring ecosystems is essential to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change, and to safeguard European food security,” asserted the coalition of 11 countries in a letter addressed to the environment ministers of other EU member states, publicly released on Tuesday. “Our failure as EU leaders to act now would fundamentally undermine public faith in our political leadership,” they emphasized.
The signatories of the letter include Cyprus, Czech Republic, France, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Ireland, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Slovenia, and Spain.
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While EU nations and lawmakers reached a consensus on the legislation last year, dissenting voices have raised concerns over perceived regulatory burdens on industries. Notably, farmers across Europe have staged protests, citing grievances related to stringent EU regulations.
EU diplomats disclosed on Tuesday that no member state had altered its stance on the law since March, resulting in a deadlock among member states. Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, and Sweden stand in opposition to the nature policy, while Austria, Belgium, Finland, and Poland intend to abstain. The remaining EU member states extend their support to the legislation.
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“We need one country,” remarked an EU diplomat, underscoring the need for unanimous agreement.
The coalition of 11 countries has proposed presenting the law for approval during a meeting of environment ministers scheduled for June 17. Notably, the European Parliament has already endorsed the legislation.
This timing, just days after the European Parliament election, is strategic. EU officials suggest that the aftermath of the election could afford countries the political latitude necessary to rally behind the law. Forecasts indicate that the election outcome may usher in an EU Parliament characterized by a greater presence of right-wing parties skeptical of environmental policies.
