How to protect biodiversity? The strategies of the European Union

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Biodiversity represents the richness of life on our planet, an essential element for the survival of humanity and for the well-being of ecosystems. However, the increasing impact of human activities is endangering this precious resource. Climate change, deforestation, pollution, and overexploitation of natural resources are among the main causes of biodiversity loss. To address this crisis, the European Union has introduced an ambitious strategy to protect nature as a key element of the European Green Deal. This strategy aims to reverse the decline of biodiversity by 2030. This commitment not only concerns the conservation of species but also the restoration of natural habitats and the improvement of quality of life for future generations.

Among the central measures adopted by the EU is the creation of a network of protected areas on land and sea, called Natura 2000. With over 27,000 sites covering almost one-fifth of European territory, this network is one of the pillars of environmental protection. The main objectives include the protection of endangered animal and plant species, as well as the safeguarding of ecosystems. The Natura 2000 network also promotes sustainable land use, ensuring that economic activities can coexist with environmental protection. Another fundamental aspect of the EU's biodiversity policy is the restoration of degraded habitats through a series of commitments and specific measures, including reducing the use and risk of pesticides by 50% by 2030 and planting 3 billion trees. Finally, an allocation of 20 billion euros per year for the protection and promotion of biodiversity through EU funds and national and private financing.

The European Union has also intensified its efforts to combat invasive species, which represent one of the main threats to biodiversity. Plant and animal species accidentally or intentionally introduced into new habitats can cause irreparable damage to local ecosystems, competing with native species and altering natural balances. Through the Invasive Species Regulation, the European Union coordinates the interventions of member states to identify, monitor, and control these species, protecting vulnerable ecosystems. This work fits into a broader vision, which sees biodiversity as an integral part of the continent’s environmental security.

The European Council has approved the Nature Restoration Law (Nature Restoration Law), aimed at restoring biodiversity and ecosystems in line with the EU's 2030 strategy. This regulation provides for recovery measures for at least 20% of the EU's terrestrial and marine areas by 2030, and for all ecosystems requiring restoration by 2050. These are the first rules dedicated to nature restoration in EU member states, which will set binding targets for: degraded terrestrial and marine habitats; pollinators; agricultural ecosystems; urban areas; rivers and floodplains; forests. The Council defined its position on the regulation in June 2023 and reached an agreement with the European Parliament in November 2023, after "trilogue" negotiations. The regulation was adopted definitively in June 2024.

In addition to European directives and national plans, biodiversity protection is promoted globally. The EU adopts various policies to stop the loss of biodiversity and ecosystems, based on regulations such as: Birds and Habitats Directives; Water Framework Directive; Marine Strategy Framework Directive. These laws, along with those related to pollution, invasive alien species, and climate change, aim to preserve biodiversity by addressing the causes of its decline. To fund nature protection and restoration initiatives, the EU has created the LIFE program, active since 1992, the only EU funding program dedicated exclusively to environmental and climate objectives. To date, it has co-financed over 5,000 projects. Furthermore, on the occasion of COP16, held in Cali, Colombia, in October 2024, the EU reaffirmed its leading role by promoting ambitious agreements for nature protection.

The role of education and awareness is fundamental for the success of biodiversity policies. The EU is committed to engaging citizens, businesses, and local communities, promoting educational initiatives and information campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of nature. Active citizen participation is not just an objective but a necessity: without the support of civil society, conservation and restoration goals risk remaining unfulfilled. Biodiversity is not an issue concerning only governments or sector experts but a common heritage to be protected with shared responsibility. With a comprehensive and ambitious strategy, the EU positions itself as a global leader in biodiversity protection. However, the road ahead is still long and requires constant and joint commitment. Biodiversity is the very foundation of life, and protecting it means investing in the future of our planet.

This article is created within the project "Biodiversity services EU expansion" (CUP: E43D22000480009) as part of the Lombardy Region's call "PR FESR 2021-2027 – INTERNATIONALIZATION LINE 21-27", aimed at supporting the internationalization of Italian companies. 3Bee is the naturetech company that develops innovative technologies for the monitoring, protection, and regeneration of biodiversity, supporting companies in defining personalized climate strategies based on the analysis of their impacts and dependencies on nature. With a solid portfolio in Italy, Germany, and France and significant partnerships, 3Bee continues its expansion into international markets to create a tangible impact through technology.