Commission launching an attack against nature

In its work programme presented today (Wednesday, 4 November), the European Commission leaves the door open for weakening the European Union’s core nature conservation legislation. The Birds Directive and the Habitats Directive, which govern the preservation of natural habitats and wild flora and fauna and establish the Natura 2000 network of protected areas, are included in a ‘review of nature protection directives’.

Jutta Paulus MEP, shadow rapporteur for the Greens/EFA group on the Nature Restoration Law, commented:

“The Commission is launching an attack against nature. The global biodiversity conference has barely concluded when the Commission is announcing further cuts to nature conservation. It is utterly lacking in credibility to push for progress at a biodiversity conference while shifting into reverse gear back home.

“By targeting both the Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive, the European Commission is launching a major attack on two pillars of European nature conservation. The European Environment Agency has made it clear that healthy ecosystems foster innovation, investment, and employment. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank has warned of the high costs caused by the loss of ecosystem services. Any sound economic strategy cannot involve the destruction of the very foundations and resources upon which business relies. Nature is not an obstacle to prosperity; it is a prerequisite for it. An economy cannot function without clean air, fertile soil, and drinkable water.”