Did you know that Europe is home to the largest network of environmentally protected areas in the world? Over 27,000 nature sites protected by EU laws make up the Natura 2000 network!
Every year on 21 May we celebrate Natura 2000 Day, when we highlight what is being done to protect most valuable and threatened species and habitats in the EU.
Natura 2000 sites cover almost one fifth of the EU’s land and one tenth of surrounding seas – which is about the size of Spain and Italy combined. Created by the Birds and Habitats Directives back in 1992, Natura 2000 has revolutionised the way protected areas are managed all around the EU.
Around 1 200 rare and threatened species and 230 habitat types are protected thanks to the network. It helps provide us with vital services like fresh water, pollinating insects and protection against floods and coastal erosion, whilst supporting around 4.4 million jobs.
Of course, there is plenty still left to do to protect our biodiversity. In the meantime, there are also plenty of ways to learn more about Natura 2000 and how it is making a difference. You can for example find out about the protected sites near you by asking Flora. Or you can take a look at the interactive map of the Natura 2000 network.
You can also get involved in this year’s Bioblitz, which takes place between 17 May and 25 May. This is your opportunity to contribute to science by taking part in a collaborative effort to find and identify as many plant, animal, and fungal species as possible within a Natura 2000 bioblitz area near you. Find out how you can take part via the Natura 2000 Day page below.
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