Spain and Portugal push national nature‑restoration plans ahead of EU deadlines

Spain is preparing a National Restoration Plan that must be submitted to the European Union by 31 August. Officials argue that stable, dedicated financing is essential for long‑term ecosystem recovery, biodiversity protection and climate‑resilience, warning that reliance on general budget lines could jeopardise the scheme.

Portugal unveiled its National Restoration Plan, committing an average of €500 million per year through 2030. The programme targets terrestrial, marine, freshwater, urban and agricultural habitats, includes planting three million trees annually, and launches pilot projects in several regions. The plan lists more than 400 measures, such as restoring 260 km² of degraded land, revitalising river networks and safeguarding pollinator populations. Both countries see restoration as a strategic tool for ecological recovery, job creation and economic competitiveness.

The two initiatives reflect the EU’s broader nature‑restoration directive, which requires member states to develop concrete strategies for restoring degraded ecosystems and enhancing climate adaptation.