1. Natura 2000 Networking Programme
Final Conference
Marita Arvela,
Nature and Biodiversity Unit, DG ENV.B2

2. This presentation is about:
Natura 2000 progress
Why it is important to communicate on Natura 2000? Natura 2000 Networking Programme & other Commission activities

3. Natura 2000 EU-wide ecological network of protected areas
Cornerstone in protecting Europe’s biodiversity protection

4. Natura 2000 progress 20 % of the EU 27 territory
> Natura 2000 sites
20 % of the EU 27 territory
Natura barometer:
June 2007

6. 10 good reasons to communicate on Natura 2000
Too many Europeans have still not heard of Natura 2000
It is a European initiative requiring exchange of experiences and networking
It involves mainly private land
There are too many misconceptions
It can help new opportunities and partnerships for rural areas

7. It leads to joined-up thinking at policy level
It informs the public of the governments’ response to their concern
It increases people’s possibilities to enjoy their natural heritage
It brings the discussion on Natura 2000 into the realm of an informed debate
It encourages everyone to feel a sense of ownership and responsibility for Natura 2000

8. Commission activities to raise awareness on Natura 2000
Brochures & other information material
Nature and Biodiversity website
Specific projects Natura 2000 Networking Programme!
Guidelines (7)
Seminars, workshops, conferences
Natura 2000 Newsletter (1996- )
970 LIFE-Nature projects (1992- )
LIFE+

9. Natura 2000 Networking Programme
follow-up to Natura 2000 Networking Initiative
Aim: to improve information, communication and general understanding of Natura 2000 Network
promotes partnership building at local level, raising awareness among general public & stakeholders to participate in planning/management process
key element: exchange of experience & good practices on site management (incl ‘good practise examples’, Natura Green Days)
workshops throughout Europe

10. Activities starting in 2008
Information and communication on the designation and management of Natura 2000 sites
- Natura 2000 Partner award scheme
Awareness raising on Biodiversity
LIFE + (project implementation 1/2009-)

11. Thank you for your attention!
Homepage Nature and Biodiversity:
NA201EN