NATURA 2000
Natura 2000 is essentially a system of protected areas. It is designed to protect the most valuable elements of the natural environment across the territory of the member states of the European Union. Its purpose is to maintain biodiversity and to preserve favourable conditions for selected natural habitats, endangered species of plants and animals. The system encompasses two types of area: special protection areas (SPA) for protecting birds, and special areas of conservation (SAC) for protecting natural habitats, flora and fauna.
Natura 2000 areas receive such status in accordance with two directives from the European Community – Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds (Directive on Birds) and Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats, wild fauna and flora (Directive on Habitats).
