Czech experts say nature’s free benefits need state support

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In the Czech Republic, experts are emphasizing the importance of restoring nature not just for environmental reasons, but also for economic stability and resilience against drought and heat.
They explain that nature provides essential services, like water retention, fertile soil, and pollination, that often go unvalued in economic calculations. While citizens understand the need to protect nature, the government frequently creates obstacles for landowners, such as farmers and forest owners, who want to care for the environment without financial loss.
These experts point to a decline in biodiversity over the last forty years, noting the loss of approximately ten million birds, alongside disappearing butterflies and bees. This loss makes the Czech landscape more vulnerable to drought and soil erosion. They believe the country can restore small pockets of nature within agricultural land, forests, and cities to help mitigate these problems, protect against floods, and improve both urban life and agricultural productivity.
The experts suggest that inspiring practical examples, such as encouraging local action, home gardening, and purchasing organic food, can further shift public attitudes and create demand for nature-friendly policies. They see growing awareness of the issue and a strengthening desire for practical solutions to restore the Czech landscape.

