The first-of-its-kind regulation on nature restoration aims to put measures in place to restore at least 20 per cent of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030, and all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050.

It sets specific, legally binding targets and obligations for nature restoration in each of the listed ecosystems — from terrestrial to marine, freshwater and urban ecosystems.

Despite its approval by MEPs in February, the law stalled among member state leaders in the European Council. It only received approval yesterday because of a dramatic decision by Austria’s environmental minister to defy her own prime minister by voting in favour instead of abstaining.

Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer has threatened to go to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) to have the decision annulled, but climate protection minister Leonore Gewessler insisted she had legal advice allowing her to make the decision, POLITICO reports.

Ireland’s minister for environment and climate action, Eamon Ryan, said: “This is an historic vote for nature and a huge opportunity to rebalance our ecosystems, strengthen our food security, improve our water and our air and ensure more secure livelihoods and wellbeing for millions of Europeans.

“Europe is the fastest warming continent and is facing unprecedented impacts from the intertwined nature and climate crises. This is a decisive step towards addressing the very real risks we are already seeing, from desertification to flooding.

“Large-scale restoration of nature has the potential to strengthen Europe and to provide additional income streams for farmers, foresters, fishers and other landowners. It will create jobs and stimulate downstream industries, such as eco-tourism, bringing real stimulus to rural economies. It’s already happening.

“Tens of thousands of farmers across the country are already taking part in schemes, projects and programmes to restore nature. I say it over and over again. Farmers are the frontline heroes in climate action. We want to work collaboratively, to restore nature and to ensure that farmers and rural communities are well rewarded and can thrive. This is what the NRL is all about.”