The newly formed Flemish Government aims to strengthen its commitment to nature restoration to enhance resilience against climate change and extreme weather.
The government plans to add 10,000 hectares of forest by 2030, prioritising farmers for land purchases in agricultural zones.
A “Blue Deal 2.0” will be also introduced to mitigate drought consequences and flood risks by creating wetlands, conservation of peatlands, and maintaining permanent pastures.
Bart Vangansbeke, president of the environmental association Natuurpunt, emphasised the urgent need to act. He said that over 95% of Flemish nature is in poor condition and there’s no time for political games or polarisation. Natuurpunt advocates smart investments in nature restoration as the most effective and cost-efficient way to combat climate change.
The association welcomes the extension of the Blue Deal but stresses that its success depends heavily on budgets and concrete actions on the ground.
But another environmental association, Bond Beter Leefmilieu, expressed disappointment with the government agreement. It criticised the use of Flanders’ high population density as an excuse for setting low environmental targets, labelling the government’s approach as a false start.
