The European Union Regulation on Nature Restoration: considerations for its implementation in the forestry sector

Abstract

EU biodiversity conservation policies, although based on a solid legislative framework such as the Habitats and Birds Directives, have failed to halt ecosystem degradation: 81% of European habitats are in “inadequate” or “bad” condition, and in Italy, only 8% of forests are in “good” condition. Regulation (EU) 2024/1991 on nature restoration introduces legally binding targets to restore at least 20% of the EU’s terrestrial and marine areas by 2030, and all degraded ecosystems by 2050. Member States are required to develop and implement national restoration plans with quantitative targets and scientifically based monitoring frameworks. In this context, the forestry sector plays a central role, as it is directly involved in the restoration of degraded forest ecosystems, both inside and outside the Natura 2000 network. Moreover, it can contribute transversally to achieving other targets set by the Regulation, including improved ecological connectivity, pollinator presence, and urban green areas. Moreover, the implementation of the Regulation represents a strategic opportunity to strengthen the Italian forestry sector, enhance its sustainability, governance, and innovative capacity. Regional and local authorities play a key role in defining measures, working in synergy with a wide range of stakeholders - including NGOs, businesses, local communities, landowners - through participatory processes. Key challenges remain, such as adapting restoration measures to the ecological, social, and economic specificities of each territory (territorialisation), establishing effective monitoring systems, and identifying adequate and stable funding sources.