EU Consultation on Nature Directives now open

The European Commission has launched a public consultation on the EU Birds and Habitats Directives, inviting stakeholders to shape the future of Europe’s environmental policy. These directives are central to protecting biodiversity across the EU, protecting species, habitats and the wider natural environment. Through this consultation, the Commission is undertaking a “stress test” to assess whether these directives are: 1) delivering effective protection for nature, 2) operating in a cost-efficient way and 3) fit for purpose in a rapidly changing environmental and economic landscape. Importantly, the review is part of a broader effort to simplify EU legislation while maintaining high environmental standards.

A key opportunity

For water utilities, infrastructure planners and environmental professionals, the outcomes of this consultation are highly relevant. These directives play a central role in:

• Regulation of projects affecting Natura 2000 sites
• Environmental assessments and planning approvals
• Water resource management and ecosystem protection
• Delivery of sustainable infrastructure

The consultation explicitly seeks input on how the directives are implemented in practice, including opportunities to reduce administrative burden while preserving strong protections. This creates a valuable opportunity to highlight real-world challenges and propose improvements that balance environmental integrity, operational efficiency, and investment delivery.

Stakeholders are invited to share views on:

• The effectiveness of the directives in protecting biodiversity
• The efficiency and proportionality of current requirements
• Barriers to implementation and project delivery
• Opportunities to streamline processes without weakening outcomes

The Commission is seeking practical input on how to maintain strong environmental standards while reducing unnecessary administrative burden.

All stakeholders are encouraged to contribute constructive and informed input to ensure future policy is both effective and practically deliverable.

Go to Consultation

Deadline: 10 August 2026

Learn more