Biodiversity and nature protection
An invaluable gift
The new member states brought an invaluable gift to the EU: large areas of wild or well-preserved nature, and many pristine habitats that are the last of their kind in Europe as well as various animal and plant species that are already extinct in the EU-15. This wealth needs to be treated as a common asset and responsibility. EU funds can and should be used to support stewardship of this natural heritage. It would be a sad paradox if instead they were used to destroy it. Such a loss would be entirely unnecessary.
Natura 2000: what is it?
Natura 2000 is a European network of protected areas selected through scientific assessments as the most important sites for the preservation of rare animal and plant species. The network has been built over the last 25 years and now covers approximately one-fifth of the EU’s territory. The aim of Natura 2000 is to protect and manage vulnerable species and habitats in Europe, irrespective of national or political boundaries. It is also a part of the EU’s commitment to halt the loss of biodiversity by 2010.
Not an obstacle to development
Natura 2000 is however not a system of strict nature reserves where all human activities and new developments are excluded. On the contrary, the sites are intended to be managed in partnership and dialogue with landowners, users and other interest groups. Development projects can be authorised based on certain conditions and steps in order to avoid, minimise or compensate for any negative impacts. However, projects with serious negative impacts on Natura 2000 sites can be approved only in the absence of alternatives.
Conflicts can be avoided
There are dozens of potential clashes between the Natura 2000 network and the planned infrastructure. Fortunately, most of the conflicts can be prevented through better planning and proper environmental assessments. The question is whether there is the political will to do so. This map displays a number of infrastructure projects that seriously clash with Natura 2000 sites only because the possible alternatives have not been examined as they should be.
Kresna gorge may show the way
The case of Kresna gorge in Bulgaria is one of the most serious clashes between a planned motorway and nature. For many years, the project developers and authorities failed to seriously consider alternative routes outside the gorge. Recently, however, thanks among others to interventions by the European Commission, there have been signs of a change in the approach. Alternative routes are now being studied and there is a chance to save this unique area. If Kresna gorge is saved, this may show the way for other conflicting projects.