A network of nature conservation areas
Not enough has been put into practice
Despite all the political promises that have been made it has still not been possible to halt the loss of species in Europe. This is not for lack of concepts and processes for solutions, we definitely have these: the FFH and bird protection guidelines with their network of protected areas, Natura 2000, are essentially effective instruments for the preservation of habitats and their biological diversity in the European Union and thus also in Germany. What is often missing, however, is the incorporation or translation of this legislation into national law. Particularly in the newer member states much needs to be done; above all in South East Europe, where areas of exceptional biodiversity are concentrated.
It is important to demonstrate alternatives
Alongside practical action on the ground EuroNatur campaigns at the political level for the preservation of untouched natural landscapes and species-rich traditionally cultivated country. In our meetings with decision makers we put forward alternatives to the progressive intensification in agriculture we observe, the uninhibited use of land for building and the increasing fragmentation of landscapes.
EuroNatur has contributed by means of a constant and untiring dialogue of persuasion to the preservation of a network of valuable habitats which secure the survival of many threatened animals and plants. Numerous protected areas for whose designation and implementation EuroNatur had worked are now a part of the network of protected areas known as Natura 2000.
The European Union's Natura 2000-Viewer displays all the Natura 2000 areas (around 26 000 in number). Each area is illustrated with photographs and informative standard data.