Wetlands International European Association

Introduction

This proposal aims to strengthen WI-EA's contribution to the EU policy dialogue and increase its support to the implementation and enforcement of EU environmental, climate, and energy objectives. The activities planned combine EU level awareness raising with innovative wetland solutions, national and/or local level implementation, knowledge development, capacity building, and outreach, to help achieve the ambitions of the European Green Deal including EU’s global commitments.

Objectives

WI-EA will work to create momentum for wetland solutions by focusing on the following objectives:

1. Halt and reverse the EU’s loss of habitats and species

   • Focus on the Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and species conservation under the Birds and Habitats Directive.
   • Aim for the 30% Protected Area target and the legally binding Nature Restoration targets.

2. Protect and restore freshwater ecosystems

   • Meet EU environmental, biodiversity, and climate targets by restoring the broken water cycle.
   • Improve the health of Europe’s waters by defending the integrity of the Water Framework Directive and seeking better implementation.
   • Achieve the Nature Restoration Law’s free-flowing rivers target by reconnecting rivers and increasing the EU’s ability to adapt to climate change.

3. Ensure a just transition in peatland and carbon-rich wetland landscapes

   • Support EU biodiversity and climate policies by focusing on the inclusion of paludiculture, wet farming, and peatland restoration measures in future Nature Restoration Plans.
   • Recognize wetland-based carbon removals in the Carbon Removal Certification Framework.
   • Generate public support for the restoration and protection of peatlands.