Our commitment to biodiversity

The Nature Restoration Law: a new path for restoring ecosystems

From habitat restoration to biodiversity recovery: the National Biodiversity Future Center supports the EU’s commitment with science and strategy

Restoring 20% of ecosystems by 2030: the EU’s vision

The Nature Restoration Law (NRL), passed on Feb. 27, 2024 and effective Aug. 18, 2024, is EU legislation that The Nature Restoration Law (NRL), adopted in February 2024 and entering into force in August, sets out to reverse ecosystem degradation across Europe. It introduces concrete measures for restoring and rehabilitating the most damaged habitats—starting with those in greatest need. By 2030, the EU aims to restore at least 20% of all ecosystems, scaling up to 60% by 2040 and 90% by 2050. This is not just about protection—it’s about action. The law marks a shift from conservation to restoration, driven by evidence, collaboration, and urgency.
The NBFC contributes to this shift by translating scientific knowledge into strategies that can guide restoration efforts across Italy and beyond.

A maple forest ablaze with autumn. the trunks of the trees stand out dark against the deep red leavesSimone Dalmeri – Unsplash

NBFC’s role in reaching restoration targets

Backed by scientific expertise and advanced analytical tools, the National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC) plays a key role in turning the goals of the Nature Restoration Law into action.
As a strategic partner, the NBFC supports Italy’s efforts with cutting-edge research, technology, and data-driven solutions tailored to local ecosystems.

Young leaf reaching out into the light, crossed by the sun’s rays revealing its delicate texturemax fuchs – Unsplash

What the National Biodiversity Future Center can do

The NBFC plays a crucial role in turning the Nature Restoration Law into practical action

Development of the National Restoration Ecology Plan

NBFC supports the Ministry of Environment (MASE) in drafting the National Plan—providing scientific input on biodiversity and mapping out habitats.

Monitoring of interventions and resilience

Using tailored protocols, NBFC tracks how restoration projects perform over time—measuring resilience across different ecosystems to ensure long-term success.

Experience across ecosystems

NBFC brings hands-on experience in restoration across a wide range of settings—forests, farmlands, freshwater, marine, and urban areas. This breadth is essential for tackling the challenges set out by the Nature Restoration Law, which spans diverse habitats and ecosystems.

Intervention analysis and scientific reporting

NBFC assesses the impact of restoration efforts through detailed analysis. This is key to demonstrating effectiveness, securing funding, and guiding future work.

Enhancement of biodiversity

NBFC works to boost biodiversity as part of restoration—showing the environmental, social, and economic benefits that make investment worthwhile.

Biodiversity Gateway documents Italy’s commitment to the Nature Restoration Law

NBFC therefore has a key role for Italy in addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities offered by the Nature Restoration Law, and contributing to the realization of a more sustainable and biodiversity-rich future.
The contributions to the implementation of the Nature Restoration Law made by NBFC are recounted in the spaces of its virtual expression, the Biodiversity Gateway.

See the full text of the Nature Restoration Law.