Trend Intensified nature restoration producing results

Summary

The report finds that stepping up nature restoration is producing clear results. The number of species in the Netherlands has risen by 13 percent since 1990, mainly because improved water quality has brought back freshwater species such as the otter. The National Nature Network, although behind schedule, has helped increase the land laid out as new nature. Beyond these policy measures there are many small-scale or private biodiversity initiatives, which have the potential for a large positive impact, particularly on farmland that is not very nature-friendly. The report explains that these initiatives help restore natural structures, strengthen ecological networks and raise public support for nature.