MEPs have backed a deal agreed with EU member states to introduce a new law aimed at repairing natural habitats that are in poor condition.

The measure was passed by 329 votes to 275 in the European Parliament.

The Nature Restoration Law sets a target for the EU to restore at least 20% of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030 and all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050.

To reach the overall EU targets, member states must restore at least 30% of habitats covered by the new law from a ‘poor’ to a ‘good’ condition by 2030, increasing to 60% by 2040, and 90% by 2050.

National plans

The law states that EU countries should give priority to Natura 2000 areas – a network of specially protected sites – until 2030.

Member states will also have to adopt national restoration plans detailing how they intend to achieve the targets.

The law also includes measures aimed at improving biodiversity in agricultural eco-systems, though these targets can be suspended “under exceptional circumstances”.

The law now must be adopted by the EU Council, representing member states.