An Taisce has worked closely with other eNGOs in drafting this submission, including the Environmental Pillar and the Sustainable Water Action Network (SWAN) (An Taisce is a member of both networks). In our submission we will reiterate, expand and build on some of their points, in addition to making supplemental points.

The urgent need for nature restoration is undeniable given the latest NPWS Article 17 reporting which found that 90% of Irish habitats are in unfavourable conservation condition. 1 The Nature Restoration Regulation offers an important opportunity for nature restoration at scale across the country, while reversing declines in biodiversity, restoring essential carbon sinks, supporting local land custodians in managing for nature and leveraging state lands to achieve our legally binding restoration obligations.

1. Transparent Implementation Framework

We would highlight the importance of clearly articulated implementation measures which are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound (both 2030 and 2050). This is essential given that the Nature Restoration Regulation (NRR) contains the overarching objective of restoring at least 20 percent of the EU’s land and sea area by 2030 and all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050, necessitating clear time-bound measures.

1 https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/article-17-report-2025-volume-1.pdf

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