First Action Plan of the National Biodiversity Strategy 2030 (NBS 2030) 2024-2027

1.1 Reversing the trend in species diversity and intraspecific diversity Species recovery programmes

1.1.1 By 2026, the National Species Recovery Programme will, in addition to its focus on the species 2026 BMUV particularly affected by the expansion of renewable energy, implement initial measures for the species prioritised under the NBS 2030.

1.1.2 By 2027, all the species which are classed as threatened to some extent across Germany and for 2027 BMUV, BMEL which Germany bears special or very special responsibility, alongside the priority CWR species (crop wild relatives), will be checked for applicability of national and federal-state species recovery programmes. Priorities will be established as to which species are to have species action plans drawn up for them. For at least 25% of those species measures will be implemented by 2027.

1.1.3 By 2027, a database of all current federal, state and association species recovery programmes 2027 BMUV and measures will be set up in the interests of nationwide dialogue between all the players involved and as a basis for better evaluation. Conservation of endangered species and intraspecific diversity

1.1.4 By 2027, 75% of the vascular plant species that are critically endangered in Germany and those 2027 BMUV for which Germany bears special responsibility will be preserved in captive propagation or seed banks (ex-situ conservation), at least 25% of which will be available for population support, settlement or resettlement schemes.

1.1.5 By 2026, a ready-to-implement plan will be presented for permanently safeguarding the vascular 2026 BMUV, BMEL plant species that are critically endangered in Germany, those for which Germany bears special responsibility and crop wild relatives, in quality-assured captive propagation and seed banks (ex- situ conservation) in botanic gardens, as backup for species conservation efforts. 5

1.1.6 By 2027, our knowledge of species diversity in Germany and of intraspecific diversity, particularly 2027 BMUV, BMEL regarding herbaceous species, arable weeds and insects, will be improved by means of research projects, and measures to foster intraspecific diversity will be developed for various species. Existing monitoring programmes will supplement these endeavours.

1.1.7 By 2026, synergies arising from the action areas and measures of the National Strategy on Genetic 2026 BMEL Resources for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries produced by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, the aims of which include preserving the diversity and internal heterogeneity of native livestock breeds, will be exploited and further explored. This will involve implementing measures like the further expansion of ex-situ reserves of vulnerable native livestock breeds in the German Gene Bank of Farm Animals and the genomic characterisation of native livestock breeds. Dealing with large predators

1.1.8 By 2026, public opinion will be more accepting of large predators as a result of information 2026 BMUV campaigns and communication tailored to relevant target groups, including continuation of the dialogue series on wolves.

1.1.9 By 2027 and thereafter, the Federal Government will support the federal states to encourage 2027 BMUV application of the amended practical guidelines on allowing derogations from nature conservation law in relation to wolves, under which wolves that have overcome reasonable livestock protection measures can be removed with expedited shooting permits.

1.1.10 By 2027, research into suitable and effective measures will develop more advanced ideas for 2027 BMEL, BMUV minimising the potential for conflict.

1.2 Reversing trends of decline in insects and their species diversity

1.2.1 By 2027, the Action Programme for Insect Protection will be evaluated and the results used to 2027 BMUV, BMEL optimise existing measures and/or develop new strategies.

1.2.2 By 2027, more projects will be created for the protection of endangered or critically endangered 2027 BMUV insect species. 6

1.2.3 By 2027, recommendations for action will be drawn up for insect protection measures in Natura 2027 BMUV, BMEL 2000 sites and taken into account in the existing management plans for Natura 2000 sites.

1.2.4 By 2027, an ordinance will be drafted to restrict the use of insect traps outside enclosed spaces. 2027 BMUV Other measures to reduce the use, risk and adverse effects of pesticides are set out in action area 8. Measures to improve the quality of insect habitats in forests – such as nationwide designation of habitat trees, raising the proportion of standing and fallen deadwood of varying sizes and historical forms of forest management – are explained in action area 7. Measures conducted in the agricultural landscape for purposes including insect protection – for example, increasing the number of structural elements and agroforestry systems as refuge, feeding and breeding habitats – are identified in action area 8. Interstate habitat corridors and the continued development and improvement of protected areas, both measures under action area 2, also contribute to the conservation and protection of insect species. Measures to curb light pollution can be found in action area 15.

1.3 Dealing with alien species

1.3.1 By 2025, a feasibility check will be conducted regarding a statutory instrument under 2025 BMUV, BMEL section 54 (4) of the Federal Nature Conservation Act (Bundesnaturschutzgesetz) for a national list of invasive alien species to supplement the Union list.

1.3.2 By 2027, a strategy will be drawn up for dealing with returning or naturally immigrating species 2027 BMUV, BMEL which can be expected to spark conflict, and recommendations for fostering public approval and managing conflict will be available. 7 Action area 2: Protected areas, connectivity and wilderness No. Measure Target year Ministerial responsibility

2.1 Continuing the development of protected areas in Germany

2.1.1 By 2025, an Action Plan for Protected Areas will be launched in cooperation with the federal 2025 BMUV states which will specify measures for achieving this target, i.e. measures for the further development of the German protected area network and for the implementation of qualitative and quantitative requirements for protected areas in Germany by 2030. These will include measures to - strengthen existing protected areas by improving management quality and effectiveness, - improve connectivity between protected areas and integrate them better into the landscapes around them, for example by strengthening buffer zones, - strengthen protected areas for nature-based climate action and for adapting to climate change, - strengthen protected areas by way of restoration schemes, - increase public approval and appreciation of protected areas. In addition, the following measures will be undertaken.

2.1.2 By 2025, climate managers will be funded to pursue nature-based climate action in 2025 BMUV protected areas; these managers can assist the responsible nature conservation authorities, existing administrative bodies of protected area or other local institutions in developing plans and measures for nature-based climate action.

2.1.3 By 2026, in the course of implementing the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions 2026 BMUV, BMBF for Climate and Biodiversity, essential nature restoration measures for degraded ecosystems will be implemented and measures will be taken to enhance the resilience of sensitive habitats, including those within protected areas. The Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity will thereby also contribute to the achievement of 8 restoration targets at the EU and international level (see measures 1.3, 4.1, 4.4, 5.2 and 5.4 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

2.1.4 By 2026, measures seeking to increase the proportion of wilderness within large nature 2026 BMUV reserves (nature parks, biosphere reserves, national parks, etc.) will be launched under the Action Plan on Protected Areas drawn up in cooperation with the federal states.

2.1.5 By 2025, the protected areas targets for marine areas, including the 10% strict-protection 2025 BMUV target, and effective measures for the achievement of targets under the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 will be set out in concrete terms. Other measures for marine protected areas are described in action area 10 on coasts and seas.

2.2 Conserving and improving Natura 2000 habitats and species

2.2.1 By 2027, a future amendment to the Federal Forest Act (Bundeswaldgesetz) will privilege 2027 BMEL measures (like scrub clearance) which support the management of open landscape habitat types included in Annex I to the Habitats Directive.

2.2.2 By 2026, for species and habitat types that have an unfavourable conservation status 2026 BMUV according to the latest Habitats Directive or Birds Directive report, the causes of that unfavourable conservation status will be determined and targeted measures to improve their conservation status – including necessary restoration measures – will be developed and established as part of programmes, for example species recovery programmes alongside accompanying research. The possibility of prioritising the use or suitability of native livestock breeds is to be examined for each of the relevant measures.

2.2.3 By 2027, for habitats and species classed as of unknown status in the latest Habitats Directive 2027 BMUV and Birds Directive reports, measures will be designed and established to remedy that classification, such as improving monitoring or designing suitable monitoring procedures. More restoration measures for habitats and species listed in the EU nature conservation directives can be established and implemented, for example, within the framework of the National Restoration Plan (see the measures for target 3.1). Other measures for converting to environmentally friendly organic farming in protected areas are set out under target 8.6. 9

2.3 Continuing the development of a functional biotope network

2.3.1 By 2025, an update to the interstate habitat corridors will be in place. 2025 BMUV

2.3.2 By 2027, wilderness areas will be incorporated into the provisions on the cross-regional 2027 BMUV biotope network (section 21 (3) of the Federal Nature Conservation Act).

2.3.3 By 2027, the Federal Green Infrastructure Concept will be updated as an important 2027 BMUV foundation of nature conservation expertise for all spatial or related planning at the federal level and to support planning at the state, regional and municipal levels.

2.3.4 By 2026, existing public pre-emption rights will have been consistently used and the extent 2026 BMUV, BMF to which further public pre-emption rights can be established will have been investigated in order to have land available.

2.3.5 By 2026, under the Action Plan on Protected Areas, measures will be developed to enhance 2026 BMUV the integration of protected areas into the network (see also the measures under target 2.1).

2.4 Developing and safeguarding more wilderness in Germany

2.4.1 By 2025, the funding programmes for more wilderness in Germany – the Wilderness Fund 2025 BMUV within the Federal Nature Conservation Fund, the ClimateWilderness (KlimaWildnis) programme under the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity (measure 4.1) and the ClimateWilderness Centre – will be established and expanded to ensure optimal support at all levels for the development of wilderness.

2.4.2 By 2027, the legal options for wilderness development will be better exploited and the 2027 BMUV, BMF, incidental and follow-up costs associated with wilderness or other areas for the protection BMEL of natural processes will be reduced. This will include examining options for a stronger anchoring of the process conservation concept in Chapter 4 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act and reducing the fiscal burden on wilderness areas (see also measure 4.2 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity). 10

2.4.3 By 2026, clarity will be established between the Federal Government and federal states as 2026 BMUV, BMWK, to the conditions for recognising the protection of natural processes as a compensation BMDV measure.

2.4.4 By 2026, the Wilderness in Dialogue specialist discussion forum at the federal level and the 2026 BMUV joint discussions between federal and state entities will be continued and made more permanent. Other measures contributing to the achievement of this target are set out under target 7.4 on natural forest development. 11 Action area 3: Ecosystem restoration No. Measure Target year Ministerial responsibility

3.1 Restoring ecosystems

3.1.1 By 2026, a national restoration plan will be drawn up, in line with the EU provisions regarding 2026 BMUV, BMEL content and timings and in cooperation with the federal states and municipalities, containing the measures required to meet the targets of the EU Nature Restoration Regulation. During that process, the implementation of various measures will begin (see also measure 4.5 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity). An initial set of new restoration measures for the various habitats are described under target 2.2 on conserving and improving Natura 2000 habitats and species and in action areas 7 to 12. 12 Action area 4: Soil No. Measure Target year Ministerial responsibility

4.1 Maintaining healthy soils Developing soil biodiversity monitoring

4.1.1 By 2025, with federal support, the incidence of earthworms in the federal states’ permanent 2025 BMUV, BMEL soil observation plots, supplemented by sample plots in unused, near-natural and semi-natural habitats, will be recorded and analysed, and habitat-specific reference values for further monitoring activities will be set and harmonised with surveys conducted on farmland. In addition, the incidence of earthworms recorded in Forest Soil Survey and Level II plots will be analysed and considered in relation to soil and vegetation parameters. Other monitoring activities and existing strategies, such as those for earthworm communities in agricultural landscapes, are to be connected and incorporated.

4.1.2 By 2025, with the participation of the National Soil Monitoring Centre, the National Centre for 2025 BMUV, BMEL, Biodiversity Monitoring and the National Biodiversity Monitoring in German Forests BMBF (NaBioWald) initiative, an outline will be developed for the gradual introduction of a programme of comprehensive, cross-species monitoring of soil diversity in Germany that builds on and incorporates past activities and can tie in with activities at the European level.

4.1.3 By 2026, reference data for good ecological soil status will be available for each habitat type. 2026 BMUV To that end, methodological standards will be unified and a baseline survey will be carried out for various types of use and levels of intensity (see also measure 6.4 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

4.1.4 By 2026, an effective system will be developed to monitor soil sealing, using remote sensing 2026 BMUV data where possible. Framework conditions and measures for improving the biological condition of soils 13

4.1.5 By the end of 2024, a German Environment Agency research project will work out the legal and 2024 BMUV substantive foundations for a revision of the Federal Soil Protection Act (Bundes- Bodenschutzgesetz), including amendments to reinforce precautionary soil protection and thereby to protect soil biodiversity and natural soil functions.

4.1.6 By 2025, the federal support programmes will be amended, where appropriate, with a view to 2025 BMDV, BMWK, reducing soil sealing. BMUV, BMEL

4.1.7 By 2026, de-sealing measures will be supported, for example, through assistance measures for 2026 BMUV, BMWSB, nature-based climate action in businesses and urban greenery measures for municipalities. BMWK Raising awareness of the importance of soil biodiversity

4.1.8 By 2026, educational materials tailored to particular target groups will be made available and 2026 BMUV, BMEL, public relations work on soil biodiversity, including citizen science projects, will be improved in BMBF order to heighten awareness of the importance of soils, soil diversity, the threats facing that biodiversity and the ecosystem services that soils provide. Further measures for a consultation strategy for agriculture and forestry on matters of biodiversity can be found under target 8.1. The measures in action areas 7 (Forests), 8 (Agricultural landscapes and food), 11 (Cities, urban landscapes and other settlements) and 15 (Substance inputs and other impairments to ecosystems) in particular also contribute to the conservation of soil biodiversity.

4.2 Reducing the expansion of settlement and transport area

4.2.1 By 2025, the land-take mitigation targets in the German Sustainable Development Strategy will 2025 BMUV, BMDV, be reviewed and a holistic concept will be developed, efficiently and on the basis of evidence, BMEL, BMWK for addressing conflicting land-use objectives based on environmental, social and agricultural needs.

4.2.2 By 2026, reducing the expansion of land take will be taken into account as a funding criterion 2026 BMUV, BMWK, of area-based federal funding programmes. Additional financial incentives and programmes to BMWSB, BMEL avoid land take, use land for two or more purposes simultaneously and encourage re-use of 14 land (for example recycling of brownfield sites, multifunctional urban structures) are under consideration.

4.2.3 By 2026, unsealed and partly sealed soils will be established as an important instrument of 2026 All ministries planning for climate adaptation, with natural soil functions taken into account in all relevant support programmes. 15 Action area 5: Public awareness, involvement and participation No. Measure Target year Ministerial responsibility

5.1 Raising awareness of biodiversity through education and communication Education

5.1.1 By 2026, the importance and protection of biodiversity and genetic resources for food and 2026 BMBF, BMUV, agriculture will be incorporated as a key topic into the activities of the UNESCO programme on BMEL Education for Sustainable Development (ESD for 2030); cooperation with players in education and ESD will be increased and support for them from the ESD partners network for biodiversity, Partnernetzwerk biologische Vielfalt, will be reinforced.

5.1.2 By 2027, a campaign will be started to boost quality and implement transformative learning 2027 BMUV, BMBF (for example on biodiversity conservation) in schools and other educational settings in collaboration with other players in ESD and sustainability.

5.1.3 By 2026, the digital media content – apps, augmented/virtual reality, games, etc. – tailored to 2026 BMUV, BMBF various target groups to impart knowledge and know-how on biodiversity conservation will be continuously improved, updated and expanded for the purposes of school and non-school education, and the practical and useful deployment of those formats will be encouraged. Communication

5.1.4 By 2026, recommendations for tailored and up-to-date communication material on nature 2026 BMUV conservation with young people and adults in their various spheres will be drawn up in participatory formats and made available to stakeholders involved in youth work, education and nature conservation.

5.1.5 By 2026, cooperation with multipliers on biodiversity conservation and communication will be 2026 BMUV expanded. To that end, practical examples of ways to communicate biodiversity-related and evidence-based narratives (for example One Health, nature-based climate action) will be developed and trialled in close collaboration with a variety of players in nature conservation, 16 civil society, culture and communication, so that the subject matter can be disseminated across sectors.

5.2 Ensuring participation, social justice and social diversity in nature conservation and encouraging volunteering for biodiversity conservation

5.2.1 By 2026, the contributions of volunteer work in nature conservation, including the various 2026 BMUV, BMFSFJ, volunteering schemes, will be empirically surveyed and action required will be identified, as will BMI, BMEL the options for targeted support, backing and reinforcement to expand the involvement of volunteers.

5.2.2 By 2027 and thereafter, opportunities and services that strengthen young people’s engagement 2027 BMUV, BMBF, and active involvement with biodiversity conservation and restoration will be continuously BMFSFJ expanded.

5.2.3 By 2026, with the 2020 decision of the Conference of Environment Ministers as a model, 2026 BMUV strategies for responding to far-right and populist influence in nature conservation will be examined on the basis of research projects, and concrete measures, programmes or activities will be developed in line with their findings. 17 Action area 6: Digitalisation, data and research No. Measure Target year Ministerial responsibility

6.1 Exploiting the opportunities of digitalisation Use of digital methodologies and new technologies

6.1.1 By 2025, the Application Lab for Artificial Intelligence and Big Data (AI Lab) at the German 2025 BMUV Environment Agency will support the environmental and nature conservation authorities under the aegis of the Federal Environment Ministry in developing ideas and implementing AI use cases in biodiversity and other fields – for example, developing ideas for satellite remote sensing in cooperation with the specialist unit for satellite remote sensing at the German Environment Agency. This will serve to build and expand AI capacities and data literacy within those authorities.

6.1.2 By 2026, a new call for proposals under the funding initiative KI-Leuchttürme (“AI flagship 2026 BMUV projects for the environment, climate, nature and resources”) will fund projects that use AI to contribute to nature-based climate action, thereby modelling good practice regarding AI-based and Nature-based Solutions for the climate and the environment and regarding green and climate-friendly digitalisation.

6.1.3 By 2026, genetic and digital analysis methodologies will be developed for the samples in the 2026 BMUV German Environmental Specimen Bank in order to reflect trends in biodiversity across the whole timeline of the environmental specimens.

6.1.4 By 2026, funding options will be expanded for new, quality-tested monitoring methods and 2026 BMUV, BMBF legally sound digital species-recognition tools, particularly for large groups of species of relevance to planning procedures, and financing for already successfully established tools will be made more permanent.

6.1.5 By 2025, a study will be conducted to investigate the potential of satellite remote sensing for 2025/2027 BMUV recording, observing changes in and calculating projections regarding the state of peatland, wilderness and protected areas and forest ecosystems. To realise that potential, a portal will be 18 developed and made operational by 2027 that provides modular toolkits for efficient environmental monitoring by federal, state and municipal authorities. Capabilities, digital education and networks

6.1.6 By 2025, in the context of the KI-Ideenwerkstatt für Umweltschutz (“AI ideas workshop for 2025 BMUV environmental protection”), education and dialogue formats on the use of digital tools and AI will be offered for civil-society players in nature conservation, access to digital expertise will be arranged, and support will be provided for the development of AI-based innovations for nature conservation.

6.1.7 By 2025, as part of the project Starter-Paket: KI & Natürlicher Klimaschutz (“Starter pack: AI & 2025 BMUV nature-based climate action”), existing educational provision for young people in the field of AI will be expanded to include connections to nature-based climate action. The starter pack contains materials for testing out examples of AI applications in practice and learning about the benefits of AI for nature-based climate action.

6.1.8 By 2026, a research network will be established to identify and assess digital trends, ensure 2026 BMUV early recognition of potential opportunities and risks that digitalisation may entail for nature conservation, and extrapolate strategic solutions and areas for further research.

6.1.9 By 2027, under the call for project proposals on Methods of Artificial Intelligence as a Tool for 2027 BMBF Biodiversity Research (BiodivKI), AI-based methodologies and technology will be developed to facilitate automated biodiversity monitoring, the extensive integration of additional data sets and more in-depth analysis of spatial dynamics, which will enhance understanding of the connections between biodiversity and ecosystem services and lay the foundations for advances in species conservation.

6.1.10 By 2027, activities will be intensified to develop digital twins of forest ecosystems and shared 2027 BMBF data spaces for forest living lab areas, and initial findings and recommendations for action will be presented (see the REGULUS call for proposals and the SURVEY demonstration project).

6.2 Improving data pools and biodiversity monitoring 19 Alongside the topic-specific measures addressed in the relevant action areas of the first action Action Plan, the following overarching measures will be implemented to improve biodiversity monitoring and the availability of data.

6.2.1 By 2026, the monitoring programmes already being implemented on a uniform basis 2026 BMUV, BMEL nationwide (for example bird monitoring, HNV farmland monitoring, Habitats Directive monitoring) will be reinforced and developed further, and the implementation of monitoring schemes that have already been developed will be advanced (such as ecosystem monitoring, insect monitoring, MonViA biodiversity monitoring in agricultural landscapes, monitoring in Birds Directive SPAs, national natural heritage monitoring and bat monitoring).

6.2.2 By 2026, data flow processes will be developed and/or established for data on biodiversity and 2026 BMUV, BMBF, on drivers of biodiversity loss – for example, by the National Monitoring Centre for Biodiversity, BMEL via umwelt.info and/or in the context of the National Research Data Infrastructure for Biodiversity (NFDI4Biodiversity) – and blueprints will be drawn up for securing them long term.

6.2.3 By 2025, the Federal Government will make a digital portal for environmental data publicly 2025 BMUV accessible at www.umwelt.info. On that site, interested members of the public will find a central access point for all the open information on the environment and nature conservation in Germany, which is currently still scattered across various specialist websites.

6.2.4 By 2026, the first version of a digital information and network-building platform on nationwide 2026 BMUV, BMEL, biodiversity monitoring will be developed by the National Monitoring Centre for Biodiversity in BMBF, collaboration with the NFDI4Biodversity consortium. Via interfaces on that platform, ministries on monitoring data from various sources is not only to be collated and presented but also the Monitoring harmonised as far as possible and made available to users. This service will be supplemented Centre Steering by additional specialist information and network-building tools. The platform will thus pool Committee existing data and information relating to biodiversity, currently scattered among different institutions, platforms (such as NFDI4Biodiversity.org) and online services, into comparable datasets. As a result, current, high-quality and transparent information, backed by data, on the status and development of biodiversity will be available for re-use in accordance with applicable provisions on the protection and use of data. 20

6.2.5 By 2026, work to advance knowledge of species, habitats and their ecology will be expanded. 2026 BMUV To that end, the first recommendations on offerings and shortfalls in the species knowledge training of the FörTax project, run as part of the Federal Biological Diversity Programme for the promotion of taxonomic knowledge as a basis for nature conservation,1 will be checked for feasibility; the experience, services and networks arising from the KennArt initiative for the training of species experts will be taken into account; and the implementation of suitable measures will be initiated. Museum collections will also be taken into consideration. The courses and exams offered for species knowledge certification (project run by BANU, the working group of state-funded providers of environmental and conservation education) will be established nationwide, on a long-term basis, and their funding will be secured.

6.2.6 By 2026, a legal framework will be created that affords special significance to research, 2026 BMUV, BMEL monitoring and cultivating the next generation of specialists in nature conservation and taxonomy and ensures that the various surveying methodologies required can be used without red tape.

6.2.7 By 2026, the funding for the support of the nationwide Red Lists of animals, plants and fungi, 2026 BMUV, BMEL which are mostly compiled by volunteers, will be secured for the medium to long term and it will be decided whether nationwide mapping projects can be realised within the framework of the Red Lists.

6.2.8 By 2026, the possibility will be examined of setting up a programme to monitor form and 2026 BMEL intensity of land use and selected target organisms. It is intended to complement existing monitoring programmes in nature conservation, adding selected modules and indicators with a focus on agricultural landscapes, forests and soil (such as MonViA, NaBioWald, soil microbiome monitoring) and close gaps in the existing data. 1 https://foertax.de/ 21

6.2.9 By 2026, the National Monitoring Centre for Biodiversity will develop an integrated strategy for 2026 BMUV, BMEL, national biodiversity monitoring. The integrated strategy is to reflect findings from empirical BMBF, analysis of biodiversity monitoring and specialist targets, identify gaps in current knowledge, ministries on and steer biodiversity monitoring towards closing those gaps. the Monitoring Centre Steering Committee

6.2.10 By 2027, existing data on factors influencing biodiversity will be made available for research and 2027 BMEL monitoring (for example data held by the federal states, IACS, under the Fertiliser Application Ordinance (Düngeverordnung), etc.).

6.3 Research on biodiversity conservation

6.3.1 By 2025, as a result of the BiodiWert funding programme valuing and safeguarding biodiversity 2025 BMBF in politics, business, and society, new approaches and instruments will be identified and developed to enable policymakers, businesses and the public to protect species diversity and ecosystems better and in very concrete terms.

6.3.2 By 2026, research into nature-based climate action under the Federal Action Plan on Nature- 2026 BMUV, BMDV, based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity will be significantly enhanced, not least by means BMEL, BMBF of targeted support for monitoring of biodiversity and of ecosystem services, improved modelling of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, and a greater focus on the subject in existing federal research programmes (see also measures 8.8, 9.1 and 9.3 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity). 22 Action area 7: Forests No. Measure Target year Ministerial responsibility

7.1 Status of biodiversity in forests Semi-natural forest management

7.1.1 By 2027, the annual amount of semi-natural, richly structured and climate-resilient forest 2027 BMEL newly created from forests dominated or characterised by human influence by means of restoration, natural regeneration and forest conversion will be increased (see also measure 5.2 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity). State forests as models of good practice

7.1.2 By 2027, conditions will be improved in collaboration with the federal states to enhance the 2027 BMEL, BMUV, role of state forests as models of good practice for semi-natural, climate-resilient and BMF sustainable forest management; this will include, for example, developing guidelines for forest management in line with regulations, halting logging in old-growth, semi-natural beech forests and increasing suitable stocks of deadwood. Biodiversity monitoring in forests

7.1.3 By 2025, supplementing existing surveys on individual species, a blueprint will be presented 2025 BMEL, BMUV for National Biodiversity Monitoring in German Forests (NaBioWald).

7.1.4 By 2027, as part of the SURVEY research project, the demonstration and testing of a cross- 2027 BMBF, BMEL, regional forest living lab will progress, lending lasting impetus to research for the purposes BMUV of optimised climate action and biodiversity conservation in forests.

7.2 Adapting forests to climate change

7.2.1 By 2025, a long-term approach will be developed in collaboration with the federal states that 2025 BMUV, BMEL establishes requirements for additional climate and biodiversity services which go beyond those of previous certification schemes, are compatible with and honour the provisions of the EU Carbon Removals and Carbon Farming Certification Regulation (CRCF), and so enable 23 forest owners to develop and, if necessary, convert their forests to be semi-natural and climate resilient or to support afforestation and reforestation (see also measure 5.3 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

7.2.2 By 2027, conditions will be improved (for example via dialogue forums, exchange between 2027 BMEL, BMUV, the Federal Government and federal states) so that main and secondary tree species can BMBF become established without protective measures (fences, tree guards).

7.2.3 By 2027, under the call for proposals for REGULUS (regional innovation groups seeking a 2027 BMBF, BMEL, climate-friendly forestry and timber sector), collaborative interdisciplinary projects will BMUV produce ideas for solutions and action in the interests of sustainable forest management and timber use.

7.3 Increasing forest cover

7.3.1 By 2026, in collaboration with the federal states, areas will be identified for afforestation as 2026 BMEL, BMUV part of an interstate integrated strategy for the forest biotope network, with particular attention to criteria beneficial to biodiversity such as the EU guidelines on biodiversity- friendly afforestation, reforestation and tree planting (see also measure 5.1 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

7.4 Natural forest development (5% target)

7.4.1 By 2025, logging will be stopped in old-growth semi-natural beech forests on federal 2025 BMF, BMUV, property (see also measure 5.4 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for BMEL Climate and Biodiversity).

7.4.2 By 2026, funding options will be examined for the expansion of permanent and temporary 2026 BMEL logging bans on areas under other forms of ownership and implemented where possible (see also measures 4.1, 5.3 and 5.4 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

7.4.3 By 2026, conservation efforts for old-growth beech forests will be enhanced, not least in the 2026 BMUV form of support for the establishment of a coordination office for the international network 24 of UNESCO World Natural Heritage beech forests, with a view to safeguarding existing areas and identifying new ones in the participating countries.

7.4.4 By 2026, the federal states’ research on natural forests – for the purposes of nationwide 2026 BMEL, BMUV, biodiversity and carbon monitoring – will continue. BMDV, BMBF More measures contributing to the achievement of this target can be found under target 2.4 on developing and safeguarding more wilderness in Germany. 25 Action area 8: Agricultural landscapes and food No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

8.1 Status of biodiversity in farmland

8.1.1 By 2025, a plan will be drawn up for an interstate qualification programme for consulting on 2025 BMUV, BMEL biodiversity (including soil biodiversity) in agriculture.

8.1.2 By 2027, solutions will be developed for enhancing the infrastructure for strengthening 2027 BMEL, BMUV, knowledge transfer between biodiversity research, nature conservation, soil protection and BMDV agriculture; training and education for advisers and land users; and biodiversity consulting in agriculture across all the federal states.

8.1.3 By 2026, two new eco-schemes will be introduced and implemented via the CAP. They will 2026 BMEL, BMUV encourage grazing on dairy farms and the distribution within farms of farmland made available for the improvement of biodiversity.

8.1.4 The conservation and expansion of permanent grassland under the Joint Task for the BMEL, BMUV, Improvement of Agricultural Structures and Coastal Protection (GAK) is to remain eligible for BMF funding, except in cases of drained peatland areas being rewetted for the purposes of climate action.

8.1.5 By 2027, cooperative nature conservation will be further strengthened through appropriate 2027 BMEL, BMUV, forms of cooperation with the agricultural sector under the CAP and the Joint Task for the BMF Improvement of Agricultural Structures and Coastal Protection (GAK).

8.2 Increasing the number of landscape features and structural elements

8.2.1 By 2026, the German government will flesh out the definition of permanent and temporary 2026 BMEL, BMUV structural elements, the reference area for the installation of structural elements and their spatial distribution, taking due account of the provisions of the EU Nature Restoration Regulation. 26

8.2.2 The Joint Task for the Improvement of Agricultural Structures and Coastal Protection (GAK) is BMEL, BMUV, to continue to support permanently vegetated and insect-friendly waterside strips of at least BMF 5 metres in width.

8.2.3 By 2027, permanent and temporary structural elements and agroforestry systems in the 2027 BMEL, BMUV, agricultural landscape will be eligible for support under the Joint Task for the Improvement of BMF Agricultural Structures and Coastal Protection as habitats and refuge areas, for habitat connectivity, for nature-based climate action and adaptation to climate change. Funding for agroforestry systems is currently limited until the end of 2027. The German government will also make funding available for these purposes from the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity (see measure 6.1 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature- based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity). Duplicate funding is not permitted.

8.3 Fostering regional, diverse and climate-adapted food production

8.3.1 In 2025, the first extension to the binding provisions on animal husbandry labelling under the 2025 BMEL, BMUV Animal Husbandry Labelling Act will take effect, with out-of-house catering and certain processed products included in the provisions regarding pork products. Other animal species will follow.

8.3.2 By 2024, instructions for the implementation of air quality-control provisions will be adopted 2024 BMUV, BMEL to privilege animal-friendly livestock facilities and outdoor-climate barns under the Technical Instructions on Air Quality Control for pig farming (fattening).

8.3.3 By 2027 and thereafter, rural development measures will nurture regional value chains for 2027 BMEL, BMF sustainable products.

8.3.4 Starting in 2024, as part of the 2030 Organic Strategy published by the Federal Ministry of BMEL, BMUV Food and Agriculture (BMEL), suitable framework conditions for the further expansion of organic farming are being established at every stage of the value chain.

8.3.5 Starting in 2024, support is being introduced for measures strengthening regional supply and BMEL, BMF value chains for the distribution of regional and biodiversity-friendly plant-based foods. 27

8.3.6 By 2025, the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture will develop a protein strategy for the 2025 BMEL purposes of expanding the cultivation and use of protein crops and alternative proteins for human consumption and the production of animal feed.

8.3.7 By 2027, support measures will continue and be developed further, primarily under the CAP 2027 BMEL and the Joint Task for the Improvement of Agricultural Structures and Coastal Protection, to increase the diversity of livestock and crops and to expand crop-rotation systems. For measures to expand nature- and climate friendly grassland management, see 8.1.2 et seq.

8.4 Availability of vegetables, fruit and legumes for sustainable and healthy nutrition Creating a suitable policy framework

8.4.1 The Protein Crop Strategy, which has been in place since 2012, contributes through various BMEL, BMUV measures to the achievement of this target. Starting in 2024, initial measures are also being implemented under the Federal Government’s Food and Nutrition Strategy.

8.5 Halving food waste There is already a programme in place to reduce food waste: the National Strategy for Food Waste Reduction.2

8.6 Expanding organic farming Expanding organic farming

8.6.1 By 2027, organic products will make up a significantly larger share of food consumed in federal 2027 All ministries institutions, moving towards the 30% by 2030 target. Financial support for counselling and certification under the Guidelines on Funding for Counselling for Out-of-house Catering (AHV) Companies to Increase Use of Organic Products (RIBE-Richtlinie), and support for advice and certification via the Organic Out-of-house Catering Regulation (Bio-AHV-Verordnung) through the organic out-of-house catering label for restaurants, canteens and cafeterias will increase the attractiveness of using organic food in out-of-house catering. 2 https://www.bmel.de/EN/topics/food-and-nutrition/food-waste/national-strategy-for-food-waste-reduction.html 28 Other suitable measures for expanding organic farming are specified in the 2030 Organic Strategy produced by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture.3

8.7 Reducing the use of plant protection products and the adverse effects of such use Securing the data pool on the use of plant protection products

8.7.1 By 2026, the existing obligation to keep records on the use of plant protection products under 2026 BMEL Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/564 will be put in a practical form low on red tape so that the data can be used to monitor progress and conduct research. The Federal Government will support the federal states in developing the requisite data infrastructure. Authorisation practice and risk management for plant protection products

8.7.2 By 2025, the risk-mitigation measures imposed in the authorisation of plant protection 2025 BMEL products will be reviewed, and updated as required, to enhance the protection of habitats and structural elements in the agricultural landscape.

8.7.3 By 2027, post-authorisation monitoring will be established that brings together actual use 2027 BMEL data, residue measurements and findings on the status of the affected biota to review the effectiveness of the regulatory measures.

8.7.4 By 2025, a plan will be developed for improving the availability of refuge areas for species 2025 BMEL specific to arable land within farmed areas and directly adjacent habitats through voluntary measures. Reducing the use of synthetic chemical pesticides

8.7.5 By 2026, particularly in the context of the Zukunftsprogramm Pflanzenschutz, the programme 2026 BMEL on the future of plant protection, effective measures will be established to ensure that the target of reducing the overall use and risk of plant protection products by 50% by 2030 is reached. This will be achieved, in part, by expanding organic farming, continuing the development of and strengthening integrated pest management, extending support schemes, 3 https://www.bmel.de/SharedDocs/Downloads/EN/Publications/2030-organic-strategy.html 29 primarily under the CAP, for area-based non-use of plant protection products and, as appropriate, amending legislation.

8.7.6 By 2027 and thereafter, in collaboration with the federal states, independent counselling for 2027 BMEL farmers on the ongoing development and strengthening of integrated pest management and on fostering biodiversity will be continuously expanded.

8.8 Nature- and eco-friendly fertilisation and animal husbandry

8.8.1 For the post-2027 Common Agriculture Policy (CAP), the evaluation of national 2027 BMEL, BMUV implementation of the CAP’s green architecture will consider whether eco-schemes to reduce nutrient surpluses and particularly nitrogen and phosphorus surpluses should be introduced, not least in the interests of biodiversity.

8.8.2 By 2026, the German government will present a programme on reduced use of veterinary 2026 BMEL drugs and on their direct or manure-borne discharge into the environment. The measures in action areas 4 (Soil) and 15 (Substance inputs and other impairments to ecosystems) in particular also contribute to the protection of soil biodiversity from nutrient surpluses.

8.9 The precautionary principle in genetic engineering and synthetic biology

8.9.1 By 2027 and thereafter, research will be reinforced (by way of research funding) to further 2027 BMEL, BMUV develop risk analysis regarding the effects on nature and the environment of releasing and cultivating genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

8.9.2 By 2027 and thereafter, research will be reinforced (by way of research funding) to further 2027 BMUV, BMEL develop monitoring of the effects on nature and the environment of releasing and cultivating genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

8.9.3 By 2027 and thereafter, science-based horizon scanning, monitoring and evaluation of new 2027 BMUV, BMEL applications for synthetic biology, genetic engineering including new genomic techniques will be developed further in the interests of early recognition of potential negative and positive impacts on biodiversity.

8.9.4 By 2027 and thereafter, the complex issues around detecting the products of new genomic 2027 BMEL, BMUV techniques will be addressed and methods of analysis and traceability systems will be 30 developed. This work will take into account the (interim) findings of the EU-funded DARWIN and DETECTIVE projects.

8.9.5 By 2026, conducive parameters will be put in place for establishing ecological, environmental, 2026 BMUV conservation-oriented and ecosystem-focused biosecurity research. 31 Action area 9: Inland waters, floodplains and peatlands No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

9.1 Status of biodiversity in inland waters and floodplains

9.1.1 Starting in 2024, funding is going into investments in adapting water-management BMUV infrastructure to the effects of climate change and investment and measures for the nature restoration and sustainable development of water bodies – especially municipal water bodies. The main focus is on management of heavy rainfall and drought (see also measure 2.2 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

9.1.2 By 2026, the federal states will receive support for implementing nature restoration 2026 BMUV measures in surface waters to improve habitat quality for aquatic biotic communities.

9.1.3 By 2025, the procedure for biocenotic floodplain assessment on rivers will be 2025 BMUV established by agreement between the Federal Government and the federal states.

9.1.4 By 2026, building on the existing support from the Blue Belt floodplains funding 2026 BMUV programme, floodplain funding will be expanded in coordination with the federal states, and funding for the nature restoration of federally owned floodplain areas will be extended to include other watercourses with special relevance for the biotope network and water management (see also measure 2.3 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

9.1.5 By 2026, the determination of area requirements for watercourse development 2026 BMUV corridors will be initiated (see also measure 8.7 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature- based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

9.2 Continuity of watercourses

9.2.1 By 2026, obsolete barriers in watercourses will be identified. 2026 BMUV

9.2.2 By 2027, the federal states will be supported in removing transverse barriers from 2027 BMUV watercourses or restoring the continuity of watercourses by other means. 32

9.3 Revitalising floodplains

9.3.1 By 2026, first measures will be implemented on federal waterways and other suitable 2026 BMDV, BMUV, federally owned property, and further joint plans will be in place for projects to connect BMF water bodies, banks and floodplains.

9.3.2 By 2026, the budget for the floodplains funding programme will be increased and 2026 BMUV cemented (see the general note on the budgetary proviso).

9.4 Restoring and protecting peatlands

9.4.1 Starting in 2024, in implementation of the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based BMUV Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity, support will go to measures for the rewetting and nature restoration of key conservation peatlands (see also measure 1.3 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

9.4.2 Starting in 2025, in coordination with the federal states, the foundations at the federal 2025 BMUV, BMEL, and state levels for the rewetting and sustainable use of peatlands will be evaluated BMDV, BMWSB and developed further (see also measure 1.1 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature- based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

9.4.3 By 2026, the federal authorities will undertake more peatland conservation and 2026 BMF, BMUV restoration measures on federally owned property in order to fulfil the public sector’s function as a model of good practice as laid down in the National Peatland Protection Strategy.

9.4.4 By 2027, as part of the MoorPower research project, the technical, ecological and 2027 BMBF socioeconomic effects and legal issues of the combination of peatland rewetting and photovoltaics (peatland PV) will be thoroughly investigated and recommendations for actual implementation will be derived from that research. 33 Action area 10: Coasts and seas No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

10.1 Status of biodiversity on coasts and in seas The German government is planning to develop a National Marine Strategy (NMS), which will include measures to improve the status of biodiversity on coasts and in seas and the effectiveness of marine protected areas on both the national and the global scale. Suitable NMS measures will be incorporated into the NBS 2030 in due course. Marine protected areas

10.1.1 By 2027, refuge and resting areas for coastal and marine species are to be established, to 2027 BMUV, BMDV, protect them from anthropogenic disturbance in line with environmental target 3.1 of the BMEL, BMVg, Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), MSFD measure UZ3-03 and the targets of the BMWK EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030.

10.1.2 The German government will continue to actively advocate for the swift entry into force and BMUV, BMBF rapid and effective implementation of the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement) and, in coalition with other progressive states, will prepare proposals for high seas protected areas for decision by the Conference of the Parties to the BBNJ Agreement (see target 20.1).

10.1.3 By 2027, Germany will support selected countries of the Global South in drafting and 2027 BMUV submitting proposals for high seas marine protected areas and thereby contribute to those countries actively participating in the effective implementation of the BBNJ Agreement.

10.1.4 By 2027, under the Biodiversity of the Blue Ocean funding guidelines, recommendations for 2027 BMBF, BMUV action and guidelines for the designation of protected areas in the high seas will be drawn up in stakeholder dialogue forums. 34 Over and above these, all other measures in this action area will help achieve the overarching objective of protecting biodiversity on coasts and in seas.

10.2 Restoring coastal and marine habitats Creating the National Restoration Plan in accordance with the EU Nature Restoration Regulation will involve developing and implementing measures to restore coastal and marine habitats, which will also be part of the German government’s planned National Marine Strategy (NMS). Suitable NMS measures will be incorporated into the NBS 2030 in due course. The measures undertaken will include the following:

10.2.1 By 2026, in collaboration with the federal states, progress will be made on developing a 2026 BMUV, BMBF restoration programme for seagrass beds, salt marshes and other habitats to improve the ocean’s natural carbon storage capacities and on conducting pilot projects (see also the field of action on seas and coasts in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

10.2.2 By 2027, ongoing species recovery programmes will be advanced further, particularly in the 2027 BMUV interests of reintroduction/restoration and conservation of vulnerable species and habitats (for example the European oyster).

10.2.3 By 2024, direct anthropogenic factors influencing the natural carbon-absorption and storage 2024 BMBF, BMUV capacities of the North and Baltic Seas will be analysed. The function of coastal ecosystems like seagrass beds will be taken into account in integrated coastal zone management.

10.2.4 By 2027, the German government, in cooperation with the Netherlands, will draw up 2027 BMUV, BMBF strategies and options for action to protect and preserve the ecosystem of the Wadden Sea in the context of the triple environment crisis (comprising the effects of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution).

10.3 Nature-friendly use of the seas The German government is planning to develop a National Marine Strategy (NMS), which among other things will also concretise measures for the nature-friendly use of the seas. Suitable NMS measures will be incorporated into the NBS 2030 in due course. 35 The measures undertaken will include the following: Nature-friendly fisheries

10.3.1 By 2025, the restrictions on bottom trawling in the Dogger Bank nature conservation area 2025 BMUV, BMEL within Germany’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the North Sea will be implemented (as a joint measure with the Netherlands) by way of a delegated act adopted by the European Commission.

10.3.2 Germany will advocate for more ecosystem-friendly methods of capture to be developed and 2026 BMEL, BMUV matured by 2026 to reduce by-catch.

10.3.3 By 2026, the pilot projects run by the German Marine Research Alliance (Deutsche Allianz 2026 BMBF Meeresforschung) will investigate the impacts of excluding bottom trawling in the North and Baltic Seas. Other uses of coasts and seas

10.3.4 By 2026, biological thresholds will be determined for the impact of underwater noise from 2026 BMUV, BMBF civilian uses on relevant species (based on the MSFD). Taking a systematic approach, the German government will investigate the effects of underwater noise on the marine ecosystem and the effectiveness and efficiency of alternatives to different noise sources in reducing noise pollution.

10.3.5 Before the end of 2024, an immediate action programme with marine conservation 2024 BMUV measures will be set up to use the funds from the marine conservation payment mandated by the Offshore Wind Energy Act (Windenergie auf See-Gesetz), and a grant of funds from that marine conservation payment to the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU), with a separate funding strand for marine conservation created at the foundation, will ensure that funding is available on a long-term and indefinite basis for measures and projects to lessen the growing stresses on the ecosystems of the North and Baltic Seas caused by the large-scale expansion of offshore wind energy and to improve the status and overall resilience of the seas. 36

10.3.6 By 2027, the additional impacts of possible future industrial deep-sea mining of marine 2027 BMBF, BMUV mineral resources and the associated damage to abyssal ecosystems will be investigated. Outlines will be drawn up for binding international rules on deep-sea mining on the basis of the findings.

10.3.7 By 2027, the German government will draw up blueprints for managing marine areas to 2027 BMBF ensure sustainable use of marine resources and ecosystem services while maintaining good environmental status, with a focus on the North and Baltic Seas.

10.3.8 By 2025, the German government will investigate sustainable coastal protection measures 2025 BMBF and flood protection solutions for sustaining ecosystem services and maintaining waterways in a context of changing climate conditions. Other measures pertaining to offshore wind energy are addressed under target 14.1 on the nature-friendly expansion of renewable energy. 37 Action area 11: Cities, urban landscapes and other settlements No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

11.1 Status of biodiversity in cities and other settlements

11.1.1 Starting in 2024, municipalities receive even more support for environmentally friendly BMUV management of green spaces, primarily in the form of recommendations and guidelines and the establishment of funding for municipalities converting to environmentally friendly green- space management (see also measure 7.1 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

11.1.2 By 2027, municipalities will receive intensive support for the installation of biodiversity-friendly 2027 BMUV elements, such as green roofs and green walls, in the form of expert recommendations to update the Model Building Regulations (Musterbauordnung).

11.1.3 By 2026, model by-laws for the protection of trees will be amended in light of climate 2026 BMUV adaptation and biodiversity considerations, as a means of further enhancing municipal practice.

11.1.4 By 2027, provisions will be enacted to stop chemical plant protection products being used in 2027 BMEL sensitive areas such as urban green spaces.

11.2 Greening cities and other settlements

11.2.1 By 2026, to support municipalities in pursuing the objective of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2026 BMUV 2030 regarding the development of urban greening plans, the funds available for the urban greenery funding priority under the Federal Biological Diversity Programme will be increased with the aim of helping at least 100 more municipalities draw up municipal biodiversity strategies and/or plans for urban green infrastructure.

11.2.2 By 2026, funding options will be created and expanded to increase the prevalence within 2026 BMUV settlements of biodiversity-friendly green spaces with disabled access that are open to the public and within walking distance of residents’ homes, to enable all segments of society to socialise, exercise and engage in sports and recreation in nature (see also measure 7.3 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity). 38

11.2.3 By 2027, options will be investigated for improving the opportunities for cooperation between 2027 BMUV, BMG nature conservation, the social welfare and health sectors, and urban planning and for more effectively mainstreaming the strategic coupling of nature conservation and health concerns.

11.2.4 By 2026, the findings already available regarding narrow corridors in habitat corridors that need 2026 BMUV to be secured will be updated and that information will be made available for spatial planning.

11.3 Nature-based climate adaptation in cities and other settlements

11.3.1 Starting in 2024, municipalities receive support via the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based BMUV Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity for their pursuit of climate targets and of greater biodiversity when planting urban or street trees, so that 150,000 new urban or street trees will be planted, cared for and safeguarded by 2030 (see also measure 7.2 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

11.3.2 Starting in 2024, municipalities receive support via the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based BMUV Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity for their pursuit of climate targets and of greater biodiversity when creating natural oases such as nature exploration areas, urban forests, forest gardens, pocket parks and small near-natural water bodies. This will also involve expanding the funding options for de-sealing measures to restore soil functions, advance nature restoration and improve the accessibility of water bodies in urban areas (see also measure 7.3 in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity).

11.3.3 By 2026, legal provisions in environmental and nature conservation law will be amended to 2026 BMUV improve protection of ancient trees in towns and cities and plant new urban trees.

11.3.4 By 2027, recommendations will be drawn up for biodiversity to be given greater consideration 2027 BMUV in the context of nature-based climate adaption in towns and cities.

11.3.5 By 2027 and thereafter, the Zentrum KlimaAnpassung (“centre for climate adaptation”) will 2027 BMUV advise municipalities and social institutions on using Nature-based Solutions when implementing measures for climate adaptation. 39

11.3.6 By 2027 and thereafter, the Federal Environment Ministry’s funding programmes for measures 2027 BMUV to adapt to climate change and for climate adaptation in social institutions will focus on supporting Nature-based Solutions for implementing climate adaptation measures. 40 Action area 12: High-altitude mountains No. Measure Target year Ministerial responsibility

12.1 Status of biodiversity in high-altitude mountains

12.1.1 By 2027, at least 10% of severely degraded wetlands and open landscapes will be restored by 2027 BMUV means of suitable measures. Attention will be paid to improving the connectivity of protected and/or restored areas, creating corridors for migratory species and designating resting zones.

12.1.2 By 2027, biodiversity loss and climate change in the Alps will be further established as priorities 2027 BMUV, BMWK, in the relevant international bodies and in the context of international agreements and initiatives BMBF, FFO such as the Alpine Convention and the EU Strategy for the Alpine Region (EUSALP), and suitable implementation and research projects and programmes will be developed and put into practice.

12.1.3 By 2027 and thereafter, specific projects for integrating biodiversity into various sectors of the 2027 BMUV, BMWK economy, such as the competition for start-ups operating in harmony with nature initiated by the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, will be launched or receive continued support, to generate incentives for innovation and raise awareness regarding the green economy.

12.1.4 By 2027 and thereafter, in the context of pan-alpine cooperation, the cross-border 2027 BMUV implementation of projects – particularly for the restoration of ecosystems, environmental and climate education, awareness raising and capacity building – should be continued and reinforced. Such efforts should build on the activities, for example, of the Alpine Convention, the EUSALP and the Interreg Alpine Space Programme.

12.1.5 By 2027, the efforts of municipalities in the Alps to build networks and cooperate on such matters 2027 BMUV as biodiversity conservation, restoring ecosystems and developing nature-friendly tourism will be further supported and reinforced. The measures under target 2.1 on continuing the development of protected areas in Germany will also contribute to the achievement of this target, helping to counteract the particular effects of climate change on biodiversity in the Alpine region and increase resilience. 41 Action area 13: Climate change No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

13.1 Implementing Nature-based Solutions for climate and biodiversity The German government has already formulated extensive measures, in the Federal Action Plan on Nature-based Solutions for Climate and Biodiversity adopted in 2023. Many of those measures have been incorporated into this first Action Plan (2024 to 2027) of the NBS 2030 and assigned to the relevant targets.

13.2 Making climate policy nature-friendly and adapting nature conservation strategies to climate change Parameters for preventing climate policy from having adverse effects on biodiversity

13.2.1 By 2024, the evolution of the German Climate Adaptation Strategy will make the best possible use 2024 BMUV of synergies between climate adaptation and biodiversity and back them up with measurable targets.

13.2.2 By 2026, a project will systematically assess climate solutions from the Climate Action Programmes 2026 BMUV for 2023 and 2030 and the climate adaptation measures from the Immediate Action Programme for Climate Adaptation in respect of their positive or negative impacts on biodiversity (Biodiversity-Check). The main goal is to identify best practice and alternative measures that effectively promote both climate action and species conservation. It will also analyse to what extent the impacts are measurable and develop proposals for assessing the nature-friendliness of climate mitigation and adaptation measures. The results of the biodiversity check will be taken into account in the next update of the Federal Government’s climate protection and adaptation measures. Where feasible, the measures will be optimised. Action area 14 on the energy transition and raw materials contains specific targets and measures regarding the resolution of conflicts between the objectives of climate action and biodiversity conservation in connection with the energy transition. Adapting nature conservation strategies to climate change and enhancing ecosystem resilience 42

13.2.3 By 2026, recommendations will be developed as to how nature conservation planning can take 2026 BMUV account of the current and expected effects of climate change (for example by reference to the latest climate projections and modelling) and channel the findings into adaptive management to enhance the climate resilience of ecosystems. More measures to enhance the resilience of ecosystems and their species to the effects of climate change and other influences are set out in action areas 1, 2 and 3. 43 Action area 14: Energy transition and raw materials No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

14.1 Nature-friendly expansion of renewable energy Nature-friendly design and operation of installations

14.1.1 By 2025, in respect of PV systems supported under the Renewable Energy Sources Act 2025 BMUV (Erneuerbare-Energien-Gesetz), the possibility of setting additional standards and recommendations for the nature-friendly design of newly installed ground-mounted PV systems will be examined. For PV systems not supported under the Renewable Energy Sources Act, the possibility of corresponding standards will be examined.

14.1.2 By 2026, specific measures to increase production efficiency will be considered and implemented 2026 BMWK as appropriate, particularly the option of concentrating on space-efficient renewable energy systems like wind energy and photovoltaics.

14.1.3 By 2026, minimum standards will be defined for smart management of existing and new 2026 BMWK, BMUV installations (onshore and offshore) that aligns with actual need, and initial measures will be undertaken to put them into practice. Renewable energy and species conservation

14.1.4 By 2026, criteria will be developed for designating nature-friendly sites and corresponding 2026 BMUV management strategies, including designating areas as renewables acceleration areas and similarly prioritised locations, where these support and expedite the actual implementation of plans.

14.1.5 By 2027 and thereafter, measures will be implemented to support species and populations affected 2027 BMUV by the expansion of renewables, their habitats and the connectivity of those habitats. They will be funded from the National Species Recovery Programme (see also target 2.1), while those in marine areas will have additional funding from the marine conservation components. In particular, blueprints for suitable population support schemes for the especially affected species will be drawn up by 2027.

14.2 Sustainable production and use of biomass 44

14.2.1 The German government will work continuously on quantifying the potential for sustainable BMUV, BMEL, availability of biomass and the expected trajectory of biomass use and on drawing up strategies for BMWK using and producing biomass in such a way as to extract the greatest added value for society, the economy and the endeavour of protecting the foundations of human life.

14.3 Nature-friendly extraction and use of biomass

14.3.1 By 2027 and thereafter, the German government will advocate at the international level for 2027 BMWK, BMAS, biodiversity criteria to be implemented in existing raw materials standards and for environmental BMUV standards to be taken into account in raw materials extraction (for example the EU Critical Raw Materials Act, the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, the EU Batteries Regulation, OECD processes).

14.3.2 By 2025, the development and implementation of metrics and indicators (biodiversity footprints) 2025 BMUV will be supported, for example, by means of funding for the relevant research, in preparation for regular reporting by the German government on the adverse effects of production and consumption on biodiversity from 2030 onwards.

14.3.3 By 2027 and thereafter, existing support programmes for resource efficiency and recycling will 2027 BMWK, BMUV specifically take account of uses of raw materials that particularly affect biodiversity.

14.3.4 By 2026, a system of targets and indicators will be developed to accompany the National Circular 2026 BMUV Economy Strategy. It will not only reflect the reduced consumption of primary raw materials in general but also highlight the connection with biodiversity. 45 Action area 15: Substance inputs and other impairments to ecosystems No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

15.1 Reducing pollution with substances dangerous to the environment Strengthening sustainability in chemicals policy

15.1.1 By 2027 and thereafter, the German government will continue to advocate for ambitious 2027 BMUV chemicals policy, particularly for implementation of the EU’s Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (CSS) and zero-pollution ambition, not least in connection with biodiversity conservation. Reducing existing pollutants loads

15.1.2 By 2027, the revised EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive is to be transposed into 2027 BMUV national law. The revised directive sets targets for equipping certain treatment plants with a fourth purification phase, to be part-financed via extended producer responsibility. It establishes more extensive requirements for eliminating nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus) and measuring microplastics and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Specific targets and measures are recorded in the NBS 2030 for nutrients (15.2, 8.8), plastics (15.3) and pesticides (8.7).

15.2 Reducing the impact on ecosystems caused by nutrient inputs (nitrogen and phosphorus)

15.2.1 By 2027, moreover, a national total emissions target will be set for reactive nitrogen, and 2027 BMUV, BMDV, cross-sectoral measures will be specified for achieving that target. The total emissions target BMEL is to satisfy the European targets (Zero Pollution Action Plan, Farm to Fork Strategy, Biodiversity Strategy, revised Ambient Air Quality Directive, implementation of the National Emission Reduction Commitments Directive) and international targets and, as far as possible, achieve good environmental status in Germany. The leading contributions to reducing nitrogen and phosphorus emissions by 2030 will be the Fertiliser BMEL Application Ordinance already revised in 2020, the General Administrative Regulation on the designation of nitrate-contaminated and eutrophic areas amended in 2022, the planned amendment to the Fertiliser Act 46 (Düngegesetz) as a basis for establishing nationwide nutrient monitoring under the Fertiliser Application Ordinance and updating the Ordinance on Nutrient-Flow Balances (Stoffstrombilanzverordnung), the Climate Action Programme 2030 and the National Air Pollution Control Programme. Other measures relating to fertilisation are specified under target 8.8 on nature- and eco-friendly fertilisation.

15.3 Reducing plastics in the environment

15.3.1 By 2025, the ERDE system for associations and organisations making voluntary commitments 2025 BMUV to reduce agricultural plastics pollution will be continued and the pursuit of ambitious objectives will be supported. Agreed proportions of the total quantities of silage and stretch films placed on the German market are to be collected and fed back into the materials cycle. Asparagus and perforated film, round bale nets, twine and non-wovens are also collected and recycled. An extension to the system to include mulching film, supported by the Federal Environment Ministry, has been under way since 2022.

15.3.2 Starting in 2025, the manufacturers of certain single-use plastic products, such as take-away 2025 BMUV food containers, bags and foils, beverage containers, lightweight carrier bags, wet wipes, balloons and tobacco filter products containing plastic, by paying into a Single-Use Plastics Fund, will contribute to the costs of waste management and cleaning of public spaces required as a result of careless disposal of such items into the environment and to the costs of awareness-raising measures. The above is complemented by relevant elements of the MSFD programme of measures (see the insert under action area 10).

15.4 Curbing light pollution

15.4.1 By 2027, a statutory instrument will be adopted to protect animals, particularly insects, plants, 2027 BMUV biodiversity and ecosystems from adverse effects of artificial lighting; it will be supplemented by practical guidelines.

15.4.2 By 2026, any new installation or renewal of federal public sector lighting (transport routes, 2026 BMDV, BMF buildings, etc.) – if illumination cannot be avoided altogether – will only use biodiversity- 47 friendly bulbs and lighting systems, unless reasons to the contrary pertain in the particular case. 48 Action area 16: The economy, financial flows and consumption No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

16.1 Value of natural capital

16.1.1 By 2025, an initiative will be started through the Standing Conference of Education and Cultural 2025 BMBF Affairs Ministers and the German Rectors’ Conference to integrate educational materials on natural capital into curricula for the relevant degree programmes, at least in economics, landscape planning, urban planning and construction, transport planning, environmental management, agriculture and forestry.

16.1.2 By 2027, initial elements of ecosystem accounting will be established at the Federal Statistical 2027 BMUV Office as part of environmental economic accounting and the results will be successively made available online and widely publicised, with support from a national advisory body (for science- based advice, networking between the relevant authorities, and in order to inform and involve other stakeholders within society).

16.1.3 By 2027 and thereafter, the Annual Economic Report will continue to reflect key measures and 2027 BMWK, BMUV indicators on biodiversity and environmental media (land/soil, air, water).

16.1.4 By 2027, projects will be initiated to continue developing methodologies for recording and 2027 BMUV, BMBF assessing natural capital, collecting and recording the necessary data, and developing meaningful indicators, with the aim of rendering the available data pool useful for evidence-based political and economic decision making.

16.2 Corporate responsibility for biodiversity and public procurement Requirements/provisions

16.2.1 By 2027, the German government will develop and initiate support services and implementation 2027 BMUV, BMAS aids for the EU directives and regulations on due diligence, among other legislation.

16.2.2 By 2025, the Natur auf Zeit concept will be further fleshed out by a research project to lay the 2025 BMUV foundations for a statutory instrument under the Federal Nature Conservation Act that will 49 govern the requirements for voluntary temporary nature conservation measures in raw materials extraction. Incentives/support

16.2.3 By 2027, the German government will encourage implementation of voluntary measures for 2027 BMUV, BMWK near-natural company premises, not least through more widespread use of the German Sustainable Building Council certification scheme and greater use of EMAS, the voluntary Eco- Management and Audit Scheme.

16.2.4 By 2027, a system of incentives/support is to be developed to generate additional incentives for 2027 BMUV, BMWK businesses, particularly SMEs, to undertake biodiversity measures that go beyond the legal requirements. Public procurement

16.2.5 By 2027, the German government will push for matters of biodiversity to be reflected in the 2027 BMUV, BMWK, general administrative regulations governing public procurement. BMI Dialogue, initiatives, practical tools

16.2.6 By 2027, dialogue with the business community in Germany will continue and more measures 2027 BMUV will be implemented to raise awareness (particularly among SMEs), develop practical tools, standards and support for sector initiatives and voluntary biodiversity measures and commitments. Other business-related measures are set out in action areas 8, 12, 14, 15, 18, 20 and 21 and elsewhere in action area 16.

16.3 Nature-friendly consumption Raising awareness and sensitising consumers

16.3.1 By 2026, the German government will push for swift transposition of the directive arising from 2026 BMJ the EU initiative on empowering consumers for the green transition.

16.3.2 By 2026, selected measures tailored to different target groups will be started to disseminate 2026 BMUV information and raise awareness among consumers regarding the effects on global biodiversity of prevailing consumption patterns and to specifically foster eco-friendly consumer behaviour. 50 The measures are methodologically varied, easy to access and in tune with the lives of their target groups. This will involve conjoining and raising the visibility of existing activities run by the Federal Environment Ministry as well as developing new measures. Temporary thematic focuses, guided by national or international activities and issues, will generate synergies and facilitate effective resource planning.

16.3.3 By 2026, in case of a further development of the National Programme on Sustainable 2026 BMUV Consumption (NPNK), it will be examined whether biodiversity can be incorporated in all the relevant areas of need and action areas and whether concrete measures for its effective conservation can be included.

16.3.4 By 2026, information on the impacts of consumption on biodiversity will be made easily 2026 BMUV accessible to consumers by means, for example, of smartphone apps. Labelling of products

16.3.5 By 2026, the German government will advocate for biodiversity considerations to be taken into 2026 BMUV account – wherever feasible and useful – in environmental certification and labelling for products and services in the European internal market.

16.3.6 By 2026, life-cycle and footprint approaches relating to biodiversity will be devised or developed 2026 BMUV further and backed with data to render the biodiversity impacts of products and services more measurable and visible.

16.4 Biodiversity in the financial sector Public finances

16.4.1 By 2027, subsidies and expenditures that are harmful to the environment and/or climate will be 2027 BMF, BMEL, examined and, where possible, terminated. BMWK, BMDV, BMWBS, BMUV

16.4.2 By 2025, following the implementation of the recommendations from the tenth and eleventh 2025 BMF, BMUV spending reviews, the sustainability of federal spending will be transparently outlined when the budget is set, with impacts on biodiversity also taken into consideration. 51 Private financial market (including state-funded financial institutions)

16.4.3 By 2026, the German government will advocate for sustainability criteria to be taken into account 2026 BMF, BMUV on an obligatory basis in the major rating agencies’ credit ratings.

16.4.4 By 2025, the feasibility will be examined of making publicly available environmental data 2025 BMUV accessible to the financial sector for risk assessments and impact evaluations.

16.4.5 By 2025, the German government will task its Sustainable Finance Advisory Committee with 2025 BMF, BMUV drawing up concrete options for mobilising private capital for the preservation of natural carbon sinks and the conservation of ecosystems, primarily in connection with the implementation and potential further development of the German Sustainable Finance Strategy.

16.4.6 In the context of the regular review processes to be conducted at the EU level by 2027, the 2027 BMF, BMUV German government will examine whether EU measures in the area of sustainable finance are suitable and sufficient for advancing the pursuit of climate targets and making environmental risks adequately transparent. Where that is not the case, the German government will submit corresponding proposals for improvement in the EU institutions.

16.4.7 By 2025, biodiversity commitments made in the financial sector will be actively supported, not 2025 BMUV least by means of suitable structures in subordinate authorities, so that voluntary commitments can be monitored and banks can be assisted with implementation.

16.5 Public biodiversity financing in the strict sense Biodiversity financing at the EU level

16.5.1 By 2027, the German government will advocate for post-2027 EU agricultural funding where the 2027 BMEL, BMUV use of public funds is purely targeted to benefit the public good with particular attention to biodiversity concerns.

16.5.2 Measures at the EU level for the first Action Plan of the NBS 2030 will need to be discussed in the 2027 FFO, BMF, BMUV course of negotiations on the post-2027 multiannual financial framework.

16.5.3 By 2025, the German government will take steps to further strengthen nature conservation in 2025 BMEL, BMUV the context of national implementation of EU agricultural support/the CAP, particularly by continuing the increasing rate of transfer from the direct payments pillar to specific funding 52 programmes – from 15% in 2026 to at least 17.5% in 2027 – and by further developing the eco- schemes. Making available sufficient funding for nature conservation – national (federal) level

16.5.4 A number of measures fostering biodiversity in the agricultural landscape will continue to be co- 2027 BMEL, BMUV, financed through the general framework plan for the Joint Task for the Improvement of BMF Agricultural Structures and Coastal Protection (GAK).

16.5.5 By 2026, the foundations will be laid to ensure that funds will remain available for nature-based 2026 BMUV, BMF climate action after 2027; please note the general budgetary reservation. These expenditures for the conservation, reinforcement and restoration of natural ecosystems largely comprise measures to pursue the new global and European biodiversity targets.

16.5.6 By 2026, the foundations will be laid for incremental increases in the total funding volume for 2026 BMUV, BMF biodiversity-promoting projects. 53 Action area 17: Health No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

17.1 Services provided by nature that aid health and wellbeing International level

17.1.1 By 2024, Germany will take part in the development of the Global Action Plan for Biodiversity and 2024 BMUV, BMEL, Health; following its adoption, tangible first steps will be taken to implement it in Germany. BMG, BMZ

17.1.2 Until its adoption, which is planned for 2025 at the latest, the German government will advocate 2025 FFO, BMG, BMZ, in the WHO for a strong pandemic accord that incorporates the One Health approach. BMUV, BMVg, BMEL

17.1.3 By 2026, Germany will support the implementation of the One Health approach in developing 2026 BMZ, BMG, and emerging economies, with due consideration for environmental aspects crucial to the BMEL, BMUV, prevention of zoonotic diseases and health risks, for example through the International Alliance BMVG against Health Risks in Wildlife Trade and the Nature for Health initiative. Research and interministerial and cross-sectoral cooperation

17.1.4 By 2026, cooperative model projects relating to nature as a health resource will receive support 2026 BMUV, BMG from, for example, healthcare and therapeutic institutions, social security authorities, sports associations and nature conservation organisations. Strengthening the One Health approach and avoiding the transmission of zoonotic diseases

17.1.5 By 2027 and thereafter, Germany’s participation in international One Health initiatives and 2027 BMG, BMZ, collaborations will be expanded, as will support for integrated implementation of the One Health BMUV, BMBF, approach, not least via existing initiatives such as the Core Area Strategy on Health, Social BMEL, BMVg Protection and Population Dynamics of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and the agreement between six federal ministries – BMEL, BMG, BMBF, BMUV, BMVg and BMZ – on research into human, animal and environmental health (One Health Platform). 54

17.1.6 By 2027, within the framework of the funding guidelines for BiodivHealth – Exploring the links 2027 BMBF between biodiversity and human health – the foundations will be laid for making better use of the potential of biodiversity for health promotion. Other measures relating to the presence of nature within human environments are set out under target 11.2 on greening cities and other settlements. 55 Action area 18: Tourism and sports No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

18.1 Nature-friendly tourism and sport

18.1.1 By 2026, methodologies and assessment procedures will be developed further as groundwork for 2026 BMUV expanding the knowledge base on the impacts of tourism and recreational activities on biodiversity.

18.1.2 By 2026, strategies for educating, informing and communicating with particular target groups, 2026 BMUV online and offline, will be analysed or devised, and effective digital tools for guiding activities in nature-friendly directions will be encouraged.

18.1.3 By 2026, in the national natural landscapes, the number of certified partnerships with tourism 2026 BMUV providers will be further expanded and the overall market share of nature- and eco-friendly programming and providers in Germany will be increased by means of cross-sectoral network building, communication measures and networking workshops.

18.1.4 By 2026, model projects will be funded and network-building events will be held to increase 2026 BMUV appreciation of nature and the landscape among tourists and those visiting for leisure or outdoor sports (such as mountain biking, golf), thereby to encourage nature- and eco-friendly conduct.

18.1.5 By 2026, findings from the above-mentioned strategies and model projects will be processed in 2026 BMUV such a way that biodiversity targets can be incorporated into tourism development ideas and into the tourism strategies of federal states or regions by 2030.

18.1.6 By 2026, information will be made available so that plans for constructing or expanding tourist 2026 BMUV, BMWK infrastructure – primarily at the level of federal states and municipalities – are increasingly in tune with the limitations of the natural environment and climate (for example ski tourism) and adverse impacts are avoided or remedied.

18.1.7 Starting in 2024, the new centre of excellence for the green transition in tourism has become BMWK operational. It is intended to function as an information hub for sharing knowledge relating to the green transition, highlighting best practice and fostering innovation. One of its focuses is biodiversity conservation. First and foremost, the work is addressed to the numerous associations in the tourism sector, chambers, and local and regional tourism organisations in their capacity as 56 multipliers. The centre also advises the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action in its task of making tourism a sustainable industry. Other measures relating to recreation and sports are set out under target 11.2 on greening cities and other settlements and target 11.2 on corporate responsibility for biodiversity and public procurement. 57 Action area 19: Transport infrastructure and federally owned property No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

19.1 Ecological permeability of transport routes

19.1.1 By 2027, a revision of the underlying data will be available for an extended Federal 2027 BMDV, BMUV Defragmentation Programme incorporating railway lines and based on concrete financing.

19.2 Biodiversity conservation on federally owned property

19.2.1 By 2026, the Federal Government’s Assessment System for Sustainable Building (BNB) will be 2026 BMUV, BMWSB, extended to cover biodiversity-friendly criteria – including nature-friendly lighting, measures to BMDV protect species that use buildings for nesting, biodiversity-friendly maintenance of green areas and measures to prevent birds colliding with glass surfaces.

19.2.2 By 2026, any new installation or renewal of lighting on federal properties – if illumination cannot 2026 BMF, BMDV be avoided altogether – will only use biodiversity-friendly bulbs and lighting systems, unless reasons to the contrary pertain in the particular case. 58 Action area 20: Germany’s contribution to global biodiversity conservation 4 No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

20.1 Implementing and further developing international biodiversity agreements

20.1.1 By 2027 and thereafter, Germany will provide specialist support and input to the implementation 2027 BMUV mechanisms of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework agreed under the CBD (planning, monitoring, reporting, reviewing) and, as necessary, advance their ongoing development through dialogue formats, review processes, etc.

20.1.2 By 2025, support will continue for the process towards making greater use of synergies between 2025 BMUV, BMZ, the Ramsar Convention and the UNFCCC, UNCCD and CBD, among others, in the form of increased FFO cooperation between the national focal points for better and coordinated planning, implementation, review and reporting in respect of shared objectives. Additional synergies between the CBD, the UNFCCC, the UNCCD, CITES, the UNESCO World Heritage Convention and the CMS will be actively nurtured.

20.1.3 By 2027, international cooperation for biodiversity conservation in mountain regions will be 2027 BMUV substantially reinforced and joint implementation by all the countries of those regions will be sought, not least within the relevant conventions already in place, such as the Alpine Convention, the Carpathian Convention and the CBD, and specific support programmes like Interreg Alpine Space. The new Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between the above-named conventions provides a sound basis for that endeavour as well as indications as to measures that will be required for knowledge sharing, implementation of joint projects, research, ongoing capacity building, etc.

20.1.4 By 2027 and thereafter, Germany will continue to advocate for the principle of equality to be 2027 BMUV, BMZ, upheld worldwide. That means respect for human rights, the effective and meaningful inclusion FFO and participation of indigenous peoples and local communities, and an inclusive approach involving 4 As in the strategy, conservation is understood to mean the triad of conservation, restoration and sustainable use. 59 all interested parties, with women, young people and representatives of civil society, local authorities, the private sector, universities and other institutions among them. Germany will continue to support the participation of delegations of indigenous peoples and local communities and youth delegates in COP meetings and advocate for dialogue with civil society on the negotiations.

20.1.5 By 2027 and thereafter, the Bonn Challenge adopted in 2011 will be underpinned by the expansion 2027 BMUV, BMZ, of the IUCN office in Bonn and international support for developing and emerging economies to BMEL restore 350 million hectares of forest by 2030.

20.2 International support for biodiversity conservation

20.2.1 By 2024, Germany had achieved the operationalisation of the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership it had 2024/202 BMUV, BMZ jointly initiated with Colombia, which was brought about in part by the launch of the MatchMaking 6 Mechanism. By 2026, Germany will reinforce its dedication to supporting developing and emerging economies with implementation of their NBSAPs under the aegis of that global partnership.

20.2.2 By 2025, Germany will increase its annual contribution to international biodiversity finance to 2025 BMUV, BMZ 1.5 billion euros. BMWK, FFO, BMEL, BMBF, BMF

20.2.3 By 2025, the German government will ensure that Germany’s international development 2025 BMZ cooperation keeps adverse impacts on nature to a minimum wherever possible, avoids unacceptable impacts on nature and, all in all, has positive effects on humans, the climate and the natural world.

20.2.4 By 2027, Germany will support the CMS and partner countries in ensuring the connectivity of 2027 BMUV protected area systems even across borders in the course of implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework, making use of thematic synergies between the CMS and the CBD.

20.2.5 By 2027, Germany will support CITES and partner countries with funds of at least 10 million euros 2027 BMUV for the implementation of CITES listing processes, particularly by means of capacity building for 60 CITES sustainability checks, or non-detriment findings (NDFs), with a focus on commercially exploited marine and timber-producing species.

20.3 Global joint efforts to tackle biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution

20.3.1 By 2027, the interdependence of biodiversity and climate change will be addressed at the EU and 2027 BMUV, BMWK, international levels, not least in the actual pursuit of the goals and targets in the GBF and the Paris FFO, BMZ, Agreement, in negotiations seeking mutually reinforcing decisions in the CBD, UNFCCC, UNCCD, G7, BMBF G20 and bilateral contexts, and in cooperation with the United Nations and non-state actors. In particular, nature-based climate action is to be further reinforced as a unifying element between the three Rio Conventions (UNFCCC, CBD and UNCCD).

20.3.2 By 2027 and thereafter, to jointly counteract biodiversity loss and climate change at the 2027 FFO, BMZ, international level, work will continue on the implementation and further development of BMEL, BMUV, international agreements and programmes – in the context, for example, of the High Ambition BMWK Coalition for Nature and People (HAC), the UNFCCC COP28 Joint Statement on Climate, Nature and People and its partnerships, such as the Enhancing Nature-based Solutions for an Accelerated Climate Transformation (ENACT) Partnership, the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership and the NDC Partnership, the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF), the Global Partnership for Sustainable and Resilient Landscapes (PROGREEN), the Central African Forest Initiative (CAFI), the BioCarbon Fund Initiative for Sustainable Forest Landscapes (ISFL) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

20.3.3 By 2027 and thereafter, the restoration of ecosystems in partner countries and stronger cross- 2027 BMUV, BMZ, border cooperation – the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, the Bonn Challenge and its FFO regional initiatives in Middle America, Latin America (Initiative 20x20), Africa (AFR100), and Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia (ECCA) – will further advance the endeavour of combating the twin crises of the climate emergency and the biodiversity crisis together.

20.3.4 By 2027 and thereafter, work in international processes will push for climate projects advancing 2027 BMUV, BMWK, carbon offsetting to establish binding and ambitious international standards which encourage FFO, BMZ positive social, environmental and economic impacts and to avoid or at least minimise, where unavoidable, any adverse effects of climate action on biodiversity or the integrity, functionality and services of ecosystems. 61

20.4 Continuing to develop and implementing the Nagoya Protocol and the CBD multilateral mechanism for benefit-sharing from the use of digital sequence information on genetic resources

20.4.1 By 2025, the German government will take part in developing and improving indicators and a 2025 BMUV corresponding measurement toolkit to raise the transparency and visibility of benefit-sharing activities and to increase the measurability of the impact of benefit-sharing measures.

20.4.2 By 2025, selected provider countries will have capacity-building support to improve the access 2025 BMZ, BMUV situation in those countries and to develop mechanisms that can also be made available to other provider countries.

20.4.3 By 2026, support will be provided to users and suppliers of genetic resources that are subject to 2026 BMUV, BMBF access and benefit-sharing (ABS) provisions in Germany – such as collections, researchers, commercial operators and private individuals – to help them recognise and fulfil their respective obligations, particularly by means of upgraded, established measures to raise awareness and provide advice.

20.4.4 By 2026, the German government will be actively involved in international negotiations to establish 2026 BMUV, BMZ and shape a multilateral mechanism for benefit-sharing from the use of digital sequence information (DSI) on genetic resources. A particular aim here is that the mechanism should facilitate access to DSI for users and avoid generating bureaucratic hurdles. The German government will advocate internationally for the mechanism not to entail any taxes or charges as part of national implementation.

20.4.5 By 2027 and thereafter, the process of operationalising the multilateral mechanism for benefit- 2027 BMUV, BMZ sharing from the use of DSI on genetic resources will be supported and the German government will advocate for making available, sharing and providing access to DSI. The German government will moreover advocate for dismantling obstacles to research, avoiding duplication of burdens and creating potential incentives for businesses to contribute to the Cali Fund.

20.4.6 By 2027 and thereafter, Germany will advocate in all international forums for dismantling obstacles 2027 Responsible for to research that have arisen from ABS instruments and, when existing ABS instruments are current ABS amended or new ones created, for choosing simplified, multilateral solutions that facilitate both instruments, easy access and appropriate benefit sharing. respectively: 62 BMEL, BMG, BMUV

20.5 Implementing the Cartagena Protocol

20.5.1 By 2026 and thereafter, the German government will continue to fulfil its obligations under the 2026 BMEL Cartagena Protocol and support the implementation of the protocol in developing countries. 63 Action area 21: Responsibility for adverse effects of economic activity based on global division of labour No. Measure Target Ministerial year responsibility

21.1 Mitigating the adverse effects on biodiversity of economic activity based on global division of labour Reinforcing biodiversity considerations in EU trade agreements

21.1.1 The German government will advocate for biodiversity considerations to find adequate expression 2027 BMWK in EU trade agreements, including in the form of - systematic inclusion of biodiversity impacts in the European Commission’s Sustainability Impact Assessment before trade agreements are concluded, - ambitious material commitments relating to biodiversity in free-trade agreements, - evaluation of the impacts that trade agreements have on biodiversity after they enter into force, in the context of ex-post evaluations by the European Commission. Improving cooperation on biodiversity issues at WTO level

21.1.2 By 2027 and thereafter, the German government will advocate for the Paris Agreement, the UN 2027 BMWK Sustainable Development Goals and, consequently, biodiversity conservation to be taken into continued consideration in the work of the World Trade Organization.

21.1.3 By 2026, the German government will advocate for the support of international initiatives to reform 2026 BMWK the WTO, such as the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD).5 Restricting trade in goods that jeopardise biodiversity and introducing regulations and standards

21.1.4 By 2026 and thereafter, the German government will continue to ambitiously implement the 2020 2026 BMEL, BMZ Guidelines on the Promotion of Deforestation-free Supply Chains of Agricultural Commodities. It will particularly advocate for implementation of the EU Regulation on Deforestation-free Products. 64 In the timeframe provided for in that regulation, it will support a review of the scope and effects of the regulation in cooperation with partner countries, with a view to achieving the objectives of the regulation and an appropriate balance between biodiversity conservation, trade-policy objectives and obligations imposed by trade law.

21.1.5 By 2027 and thereafter, the German government will advocate for mandatory product information 2027 BMWK regarding the origin of biotic raw materials, particularly wood, to be established and expanded for products being imported and traded.

21.1.6 By 2026, collaborations will be agreed or reaffirmed on establishing standards for 2026 BMUV measuring/determining negative impacts on biodiversity.

21.2 International trade and sustainable use of species

21.2.1 By 2027, to curb illegal trade in species, an electronic data interchange system will be set up among 2027 BMUV all the species conservation authorities in Germany.

21.2.2 By 2027, an internet task force will be set up at the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation to 2027 BMUV support the investigating authorities (and potentially providers) in combating illegal online trade in protected species, as the key specialised authority responsible for such matters in Germany. 65