The process creates a unique opportunity to strengthen biodiversity conservation. The policy brief highlights how Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) can play a key role in climate legislation: by integrating biodiversity goals early in legislation, potential conflicts can be reduced, synergies maximized, and public support strengthened. SEA offers practical tools such as baseline assessments, early identification of biodiversity risks, and the integration of enhancement measures like habitat restoration and ecosystem connectivity.
The recommendations emphasize using SEA at multiple stages of policy-making – from vision building to implementation, to ensure alignment of climate and biodiversity objectives. Key actions include adopting a net-gain mindset, applying the mitigation hierarchy, strengthening monitoring, and enhancing stakeholder engagement. By embedding these principles, the Climate Protection Law could set an example for combining climate neutrality with biodiversity resilience.
The policy brief is available in German, with an English version also available for download.
