The EU Nature Restoration Regulation, adopted in 2024, is the first major piece of EU law specifically focused on restoring degraded ecosystems across the Union.
Headline targets
Member States must put in place restoration measures covering at least 20% of EU land and sea areas by 2030, and ultimately all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050. The Regulation sets specific obligations for habitats covered by the Habitats Directive, urban ecosystems, agricultural land, forests, rivers and marine areas.
National Restoration Plans
Each Member State, including Greece, must prepare a National Restoration Plan setting out the measures needed to meet the targets, the areas where restoration will take place and how progress will be monitored. These plans are submitted to the European Commission for review.
What this means for project developers
- Stronger baseline data. Restoration targets and no-deterioration obligations make accurate baseline ecological data even more important for permitting.
- More attention on cumulative impacts. Projects in or near restored areas need a credible assessment of their contribution to cumulative pressures.
- Opportunities, not just constraints. Nature-based solutions and restoration credits can become part of project design rather than a separate compliance topic.
The Regulation is binding on Member States, but the practical effects will be felt project by project — through stricter assessments, clearer monitoring expectations and a stronger link between development and ecological outcomes.
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Planning a project that touches sensitive habitats?
We support developers and public authorities with ecological baselines, impact assessments and monitoring plans aligned with EU nature legislation.
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