In its statement, the SRU primarily calls for better framework conditions for nature restoration and an ambitious restoration policy in Germany and Europe. The SRU highlights the importance of support measures for nature-based solutions focussing on climate action, for example under the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity. The SRU statement was drawn up in collaboration with the Scientific Advisory Board on Biodiversity and Genetic Resources (WBBGR) and the Scientific Advisory Board on Forest Policy (WBW).

The SRU statement on nature restoration is also linked to the proposed EU Nature Restoration Law. In order to implement international commitments, this regulation is to contain legally binding goals, for example on the restoration of seas, rivers and forests, urban and agricultural ecosystems and on protection for pollinators.

German Advisory Council on the Environment (SRU)

The German Advisory Council on the Environment (SRU) was set up in 1971 as an independent scientific body to advise the German government on environmental issues. In line with its legal competences, it examines environmental situations and their trends, and environmentally relevant political, economic and societal activities. Its task is to point out adverse developments and to outline options for preventing or overcoming environmental problems.

UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

Intact ecosystems are a key prerequisite for improving people's livelihoods, counteracting climate change and halting the loss of biodiversity. For this reason, the United Nations has declared the period 2021 to 2030 the ‘UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration’. They are calling for the progressive degradation and destruction of ecosystems around the world to be stopped and for degraded ecosystems to be restored.