nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020 1

Nature and Biodiversity Newsletter Number 47 | February 2020

NATURA 2000 ISSN2443-7727

The new European Green Deal

Environment 2 nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020

Natura 2000 Commission Martignoni/European © Aurore nature and biodiversity newsletter February 2020 Contents 3–5 The Nature Action Plan – taking stock of progress 6–7 Natura 2000 in cities 8–9 Natura2000 barometer – update December 2019 Commission / European Bendo © Dati 10–13 The new European Green Deal 14–16 Natura News © Pat Tucson / © naturepl.com Tucson Pat Editorial

It is my great honour and privilege to take up the reigns as the new Commissioner for the environment, oceans and fisheries at this defining moment in Europe’s history. As a Lithuanian born after the re-establishment of the Independence of Lithuania, the European ideal is in my DNA. For me, Europe is synonymous with freedom and © SolStock opportunity, with hope and solidarity.

The new Commission starts its mandate with high ambitions thanks to the new European Green Deal. Our first objective is to make Europe climate neutral by 2050. But, this must be accompanied by much wider environmental initiatives, starting with a new EU Biodiversity Strategy.

Our ambitions are high, but so are the stakes. Scientists have been warning us for years that we have only a short window of opportunity left in which to address the climate and biodiversity crises and transition towards a much more sustainable lifestyle that is within the earth’s capacity. © imageBROKER / Stock Alamy ©Photo imageBROKER Ambitious climate and environment policies should also bring greater social justice since they improve health, quality of life and wellbeing for all. But I want to go a step further to ensure that the green transition works for all. We need targeted measures that leave no one behind, especially vulnerable people and communities.

Therefore, it will be essential to better integrate the Green Deal into the EU budget and also mobilise national and private funding. The combined opportunities of different EU funds under the 2021–2027 Multiannual Financial Framework – including the Common Agriculture Policy, Regional and Cohesion Funds, Horizon Europe, the European Marine and Fisheries Fund, LIFE and external action funds, need to be fully availed of.

© Bruno D’Amicie / naturepl.com D’Amicie © Bruno To deliver on our climate and environmental ambitions, we also need to ensure our policies support each other. I will therefore strive for effective mainstreaming of environmental and biodiversity priorities across all policy areas to ensure effective systemic change. This includes improving the sustainability of our farming and fisheries practices and addressing the environmental impacts of the way we produce and consume food in Europe. We will also need to give higher priority to nature-based solutions, such as the protection and restoration of biodiverse and carbon-rich ecosystems, in the EU climate mitigation and adaptation policy.

The next years will be crucial. I will do all I can to make them count for nature and biodiversity, not only for our benefit but also for that of future generations.

Cover: Sunrise over bog, Endla Nature Reserve, Jogevamaa, Central Estonia. Virginijus Sinkevičius © Sven Zacek / naturepl.com European Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020 3 © Rudmer Zwerver / Alamy Stock Photo Stock / Alamy Zwerver © Rudmer

Conservation measures are now in place for around 70% of all Sites of Community Importance (SCIs) under the Habitats Directive. The Nature Action Plan – taking stock of progress

Adopted in April 2017, the Priority A: Improving authorities and stakeholders including interactions with EU Action Plan for nature, guidance and ensuring apply their provisions more different key sectors, while people and the economy better coherence with effectively. also explaining the flexibility broader socio-economic A total of six guidance embedded in the Directives. aimed to address the principal objectives documents have been published They highlight the benefits of shortcomings identified during Under this priority, the so far, following extensive early strategic planning and the fitness check of the two Commission, in close cooperation consultations with interested smart participatory approaches EU Nature Directives published with Member States and parties. Four more are being that encourage the full stakeholders, committed to finalised for adoption. Some, involvement of landowners the previous year. The Plan develop and update several such as the Article 6 general and other interest groups from put forward 15 concrete guidance documents in order to interpretation guide or the the outset. actions, structured around four promote a greater species protection guide under In addition, the Commission priorities, designed to speed understanding of the two the Habitats Directive, have been has translated and summarised Directives and help public updated to take account of other existing guidance up the implementation of experience and recent EU Court documents to ensure greater the Directives on the ground of Justice Rulings. Others are outreach, and is actively and improve their coherence entirely new and respond to promoting them with the help of with broader socio-economic identified needs for clarification Member States and the in particular areas of activity, Committee of the Regions. objectives. Nearly three years An Action Plan such as hydropower and energy Also, under this priority, the for nature, on, as the Action Plan reaches people and transmission infrastructure. Commission, in close the economy

The EU Habitats and Each document provides collaboration with the European the end of its mandate, the Birds Directives time has come to look back at comprehensive information on Environmental Agency (EEA), has how Natura 2000 sites should improved the functionality and all that has been achieved. Environment be protected and managed, accessibility of the Natura 2000 4 nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020

Viewer (https://bit.ly/2H8bygK). the designation of their Natura as those responsible for Rural Directive (https://bit.ly/37jBkch) This online tool enables users to 2000 sites as well as establish Development Programmes as well as EU species action locate Natura 2000 sites and implement the necessary under the CAP or Operational plans for 16 bird species anywhere in the EU or search conservation objectives and Programmes under other EU protected under the Birds for any protected species or measures for all sites. funds. This encouraged Directive (https://bit. habitats within these sites. The marine Natura 2000 face-to-face discussions on key ly/2uxWUfS). For the first time, The Joint Research Centre network has since almost problems and a joint exploration an EU-wide Habitat Action Plan (JRC), meanwhile, has created a doubled in size. The number of of how Natura 2000 can be has also been developed for smartphone application on sites with conservation better integrated into other semi-natural dry grasslands Invasive Alien Species in Europe measures in place has also policy and funding priorities for (habitat type “6210”), (https:// to enable the general public to increased to almost 70% of all that country. In addition, bit.ly/2uqRXFX). A second plan receive and share information Sites of Community Importance back-to-back meetings have for European dry heaths on 48 of the EU’s (SCIs) under the Habitats been held with stakeholders to (habitat type ‘4030’) will be worst offenders. The user can Directive. However, progress is give them an opportunity to set published later this year. record the GPS coordinates of still too slow across the board, out their views and indicate Meanwhile, the Commission any invasive species they spot which is why the Commission is areas where greater efforts are continues to actively support in the wild and send in increasing its infringement needed to improve the EU Platform on the additional documentary actions against Member States implementation. Coexistence between People evidence, such as photos, on in order to force those who are Additionally, the Commission and Large Carnivores, a key their whereabouts (https://bit. lagging behind to redouble has continued to support the stakeholder forum that aims to ly/2Hcg51O). their efforts. Natura 2000 Biogeographical find practical ways to encourage The work on satellite-based The Commission has also Process, which brings Member the coexistence between remote sensing as a support to organised a series of tailor- State authorities and economic activities, such as better implementation of the made discussions with each stakeholders together to share farming, and large carnivores nature directives has also been Member State to discuss the experience and expertise on key (https://bit.ly/38mwBZ2). intensified and work is currently challenges of implementing the management, monitoring and Finally, to further improve underway to develop a Nature Directives. These financing challenges for Natura synergies between the nature prototype for monitoring Natura so-called bilateral “nature 2000 within each directives and other key EU 2000 habitats through satellite dialogues” have taken place in biogeographical region (https:// environmental laws, the images under Copernicus, the 22 countries so far and have bit.ly/38f9cZb). Commission has published a European Union’s Earth enabled parties to agree on Also under this priority, a ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ Observation Programme. detailed roadmaps to help speed series of species and habitat document dealing with the up implementation in their action plans were developed in relationship between the Nature Priority B: Building country and overcome close collaboration with Directives and the Nitrates political ownership remaining hurdles. scientists, stakeholders and Directive (https://bit. and strengthening These meetings have involved public authorities. They include ly/38bQrG6). A further FAQ on compliance not only DG Environment and a new EU multi-species action interactions with the Invasive Under this priority, Member the nature authorities but also plan for 44 bat species Alien Species Regulation is States were urged to complete other relevant authorities, such protected under the Habitats currently being finalised.

Recent Commission Guidance on Natura 2000 (https://bit.ly/37kXE5H)

Guidance on fisheries and Natura 2000 under the Common May 2018 Fisheries Policy Guidance on the requirements for hydropower in relation to June 2018 Natura 2000 Guidance on energy transmission infrastructure and EU June 2018 nature legislation Article 6 interpretative guide on the conservation and November management of Natura 2000 2018 Guidance to support the integration of ecosystems and their August 2019 services into planning and decision-making processes Guidance on a strategic framework for further supporting the August 2019 deployment of EU-level green and blue infrastructure Guidance document on wind energy developments and EU Ongoing nature legislation Methodological guidance on Article 6(3) and 6(4) of the Ongoing Habitats Directive Guidance on species protection rules under the Habitats Directive Ongoing Key concepts document on the period of reproduction and On going New Commission guidance on wind energy and nature directives prenuptial migration of huntable bird Species in the EU will be published in 2020. © David © Tipling naturepl.com / nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020 5

Priority C: Photo Stock / Alamy Library Picture © Arterra Strengthening investment in Natura 2000 and improving synergies with EU funding instruments Significant efforts have been made to strengthen investments in Natura 2000. Dedicated workshops on funding Natura 2000 have been held in 22 Member States to help them make better use of EU financing under the future 2021–2027 Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF). Member States have also been actively encouraged to update and improve their Prioritised Action Frameworks (PAFs). PAFs are strategic planning tools Conservation volunteers helping out in a nature reserve in Belgium. designed to help Member States establish their strategic needs geographical scale. Eighteen conservation objectives for 2000 sites were showcased and priorities for investment in Integrated Projects for Natura Natura 2000 sites and through the publication of a Natura 2000 and related Green 2000 have been approved to protected species. series of case studies and Infrastructure, under both EU date. LIFE and its Natural good practice tips. This not and national funding streams Capital Financing Facility (NCFF) Priority D: Better only revealed the common (https://bit.ly/2UF6fNH). are also actively encouraging communication and challenges facing both natural Thanks to the Nature Action private sector investment in outreach, engaging and cultural heritage in the Plan, the EU LIFE programme nature projects. citizens, stakeholders EU but also the multiple has seen a 10% increase in Meanwhile, the Commission and communities benefits of the two sectors budget allocations for Nature continues to promote closer Under this priority, knowledge joining forces (https://bit. and Biodiversity projects. synergies with funding from the exchange and engagement of ly/3bo7U02). Greater emphasis has also been Common Agricultural Policy, the local and regional authorities Finally, the European placed on encouraging more Common Fisheries Policy, the has been actively supported Solidarity Corps supported strategic, large-scale Integrated Cohesion Policy and Horizon through the Joint Platform for almost 400 environment and Projects aimed at speeding up 2020, but it is clear that more Cooperation on the climate change projects over the implementation of the efforts will be required to better Environment with the European the past two years under nature Directives over a larger target funds to meet the Committee of the Regions Erasmus+ and the LIFE (https://bit.ly/2Sx9vYJ). partnership. This has given Several activities have taken thousands of young volunteers place to raise awareness of an opportunity to get involved LIFE Integrated Projects Natura 2000 and the Nature in nature projects on the Directives. This has included ground (https://bit.ly/3brHpqI). Integrated Projects are strategic projects supporting EU two editions of the EU Natura Member States to achieve full implementation of Strategies 2000 Award aimed at raising Conclusions or Action Plans required by the EU environmental and awareness about, and The Action Plan has put in place climate legislation. They are implemented at national or recognising excellence in, the key processes to strategically regional scales, involving relevant authorities and very management and promotion of support the implementation significant budgets from several EU and national sources, the network and its many of the Nature Directives lasting for 6–10 years on average. benefits to European citizens and the delivery of their (https://bit.ly/2OJAQ8Z). It also objectives. Many of its actions Under the sub-programme for environment, these large- includes an annual Europe- will continue over coming scale projects implement plans, strategies or roadmaps wide celebration of Natura years in order to maintain the in the areas of nature (including Natura 2000 network 2000 day on 21 May. In 2019, momentum generated under management), water, waste, and air. Projects receive a co- over 140 celebrations and the Action Plan. funding of up to 60%, with an average of €10 million LIFE networking events took place The experience with delivery grant per project. across the EU. of the Nature Action Plan is As part of the European Year also providing a valuable input Full details on the LIFE database (under of Cultural Heritage in 2018, into the development of the Integrated Projects Environment): the links between natural and future EU Biodiversity Strategy https://bit.ly/2H94T5S cultural heritage in Natura for the post-2020 period. 6 nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020 © SolStock

Natura 2000 sites in cities provide ample opportunity for recreation, relaxation, education and discovery. Natura 2000 in cities

Contrary to popular belief, of a highly diversified mosaic As expected, the total surface European cities harbour a of habitats and eco-niches area of Natura 2000 within surprising array of wild plants capable of hosting a wide the city boundary is relatively and animals, including many array of different species. small (16,737 km2) compared endangered species, and can Residential gardens and parks, to size of the Natura 2000 play an important role in their for example, have become network as a whole, but it is not conservation. important reservoirs for bees insubstantial. It represents ca. There may be several reasons and other pollinators that 2% of the network – equivalent for this unexpected wealth. find it difficult to survive in to an area more than half the It could be linked to the fact surrounding intensively farmed size of Belgium. that certain cities sprouted up agricultural areas. Most urban Natura 2000 in already productive regions, sites start within the city such as estuaries or along river Natura 2000 in cities boundary and extend outwards banks, that were biodiverse Last year, the Commission across the wider countryside. If to begin with. It could also be launched a study to explore the these contiguous Natura 2000 due to Europe’s long history of extent to which Natura 2000 areas are included, the coverage urban development that has sites are present in European increases substantially, allowed wildlife to adapt, over cities. For this, the EU Urban confirming the close proximity time, to the urban environment. Atlas of Cities database was of many Natura 2000 sites to The structural complexity overlaid on the Natura 2000 people and urban areas. of cities has also no doubt viewer map. This correlates well with had a strong influence, The analysis revealed that recent studies that estimated encouraging the emergence the vast majority (82%) of the that Natura 2000 covers 808 EU cities analysed (those around 15% of the total with over 50,000 inhabitants) Functional Urban Area in Europe Cities with Natura sites No. of Natura sites per city have Natura 2000 sites within (FUA) and that 65% of EU their boundaries. In total, 2842 citizens live within 5 km of a Without 6+ sites Natura 2000 sites are located Natura 2000 site. Natura 2000 20% at least partly within cities, The main habitats found in 18% 1–2 sites representing around 10% of the these 2842 urban Natura 2000 42% Natura 2000 network. A third sites were also investigated. With Natura 2000 3–5 sites of these (855) are entirely or Forests (especially riparian 82% 38% mostly within the city (i.e. more forests, beech forests and than 80% of their surface area oak forests), grasslands (dry is within the city boundary). grasslands, wet meadows) and nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020 7 © Antoninapotapenko / iStock © Antoninapotapenko freshwater habitats (lakes and rivers) were the most frequently mentioned in the Standard Data Forms that accompany each of the 2842 sites. This is not unexpected as forests and grasslands are also the main habitat groups within the Natura 2000 network as a whole. In terms of species, birds are by far the most frequently mentioned, followed by mammals. Amongst the most common are bats and birds of prey along with kingfishers, storks, red-backed shrike, butterflies, land turtles, otter and beetles, such as the stag beetle and the great Capricorn beetle. In the city, nature can be ‘up close and personal’ rather than distant and abstract. Nature – an integral part of the urban agenda reduce their capacity to function often appear far off and remote, animals can take refuge, away Until now urban development properly. and without any relevance to from the public. has generally been viewed Biodiversity-rich green spaces, their daily lives. But, in the city, Such highly managed, and as a major threat to natural such as Natura 2000 sites, can nature is ‘up close and personal’ largely artificial green spaces, habitats and species due to help combat these problems and rather than distant and abstract. rarely contain much biodiversity its appetite for land. Whilst render the city more sustainable, However, for nature to survive and, because they are bereft of this remains true, it ignores liveable and resilient in many in an urban environment it must wildlife, they do not function as the important role that cities ways. They can absorb pollution be given sufficient space and well as they could when it comes can play in safeguarding from the air and waterways, protection, and be managed to providing their valuable biodiversity and undervalues reduce noise, create areas of in a sympathetic manner. It is ecosystem services. the contribution urban areas shade and ventilation, absorb not enough to just ‘turn a grey It will therefore be crucial in can make in improving the storm water and reduce run- area into a green space’. Green coming years to ensure that quality of life and sustainability offs. They can also encourage spaces are not automatically green spaces are made of the cities themselves if they alternative means of transport synonymous with nature and biodiversity-rich and that are sustainably planned with (cycling, walking, trams) and biodiversity. biodiversity is put on the same biodiversity thinking placed at stimulate new nature-based All too often, urban parks footing as green infrastructure their heart. jobs (city farms, allotments, city tend to have tightly cropped in urban development and Today, many of Europe’s parks and gardens). lawns, well-tended flower beds regeneration programmes. The cities suffer from a series of In addition, nature in cities (often planted with short-lived new European Green Deal demographic problems, including provide ample opportunity for exotic plants), as well as large launched in December 2019 social inequality, segregation, recreation, relaxation and social areas without vegetation (e.g. should help pave the way. unemployment, poverty, crime, interaction as well as education paths and playgrounds) and The Natura 2000 in Cities congestion, urban sprawl, and discovery. For many city sometimes little or no tall or report is available on: pollution etc… all of which dwellers, protected wildlife areas dense vegetation in which https://bit.ly/2w3oLFn

Frequency of species groups in urban Natura 2000 sites The EnRoute initiative provides scientific knowledge of how urban Birds ecosystems can support urban planning at different stages of policy. It illustrates how collaboration between and across different policy levels Mammals can lead to concrete green infrastructure policy setting. Its follow up – Invertebrates the BiodiverCities project – aims to enhance civil society participation in local and urban decision-making, building a joint vision of the green Fish city of tomorrow. The project is collecting practical examples of how to engage citizens in vision building around urban nature, monitoring, and Reptiles solutions to improve urban biodiversity. It will also assess how urban Amphibians green infrastructure can be used to provide local benefits for people and nature and how it can contribute to enhancing biodiversity. Plants https://oppla.eu/groups/enroute | https://oppla.eu/groups/biodivercities 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 8 nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020 barometer

This Natura Barometer is Natura 2000 network TERRESTRIAL MARINE produced by DG Environment (terrestrial and marine) SCI SPA Natura 2000 network SCI SPA Natura 2000 network with the help of the European Total N° Natura Total area SCI area SPA area Natura area % land area SCI area SPA area Natura area Environment Agency. It is Member States 2000 Sites Natura 2000 km2 (km2) (km2) (km2) covered (km2) (km2) (km2) based on information officially transmitted by Member States AUSTRIA 352 12895 9378 10334 12895 15% n.a. n.a. n.a. AT up to December 2019. BELGIUM 310 5163 3282 3186 3891 13% 1128 318 1271 BE

The Natura 2000 network is BULGARIA 341 41554 33629 25609 38728 35% 2482 550 2827 BG composed of sites under the CYPRUS 62 10133 959 1493 1669 30% j j j 8457 110 j j j 8464 CY Habitats Directive (pSCI, SCIs or SACs – labelled ‘SCIs’ in the CZECH REPUBLIC 1153 11148 7951 7035 11148 14% n.a. n.a. n.a. CZ barometer) and sites under GERMANY 5200 80831 33550 40263 55228 15% 20938 19738 25603 DE the Birds Directive (SPAs). The figures relating to the total DENMARK 384 22664 3289 2488 3616 8% 16492 12176 19048 DK area of Natura 2000 sites ESTONIA 567 14861 7806 6203 8106 18% 3883 6480 6754 EE (i.e. SPAs + SCIs) have been obtained through GIS analysis. SPAIN 1872 222515 117584 101619 138111 27% 54895 52071 84405 ES This avoids any risk of counting sites twice if they have FINLAND 1866 50636 42197 24550 42495 13% 7676 7402 8141 FI been designated under both FRANCE 1776 203564 48752 44016 70875 13% 106306 j 119646 j 132689 FR Directives. GREECE 446 58778 21912 27761 35982 27% 17528 10764 22796 GR

Arrows indicate increase in CROATIA 783 25954 16036 17050 20716 37% 4919 1112 5238 HR the area of the Natura 2000 network since the last HUNGARY 525 19949 14442 13747 19949 21% n.a. n.a. n.a. HU update of the barometer in IRELAND 604 19481 7163 4311 9226 13% 9781 1584 10255 IE March 2019. ITALY 2621 69302 42902 40295 57258 19% 6587 j j 8809 j j 12044 IT

Significant progress continues LITHUANIA 556 9699 6344 5530 8136 13% 958 1056 1563 LT to be made in the marine environment. Further marine LUXEMBOURG 66 702 416 418 702 27% n.a. n.a. n.a. LU sites have been designated LATVIA 333 11834 7421 6607 7447 12% 2664 4280 4387 LV in Cyprus, France, Italy and Portugal. MALTA 55 4184 41 16 42 13% 2283 3221 4142 MT

NETHERLANDS 197 20605 3139 4771 5522 15% 12074 8627 15083 NL

POLAND 985 68405 34196 48428 61168 20% 4339 7224 7237 PL Natura 2000 in EU 28 PORTUGAL 167 61403 15655 9199 18970 21% 37383 8747 j j 42433 PT

ROMANIA 606 60577 40310 37118 54214 23% 6188 1630 6362 RO

Marine SWEDEN 4087 75854 55106 26448 55611 12% 20174 14448 20243 SE Land 42.2% SLOVENIA 355 7682 6634 5066 7672 38% 4 9 10 SI 57.8% SLOVAKIA 683 14633 6151 13105 14633 30% n.a. n.a. n.a. SK

UNITED KINGDOM* 934 153137 13176 16091 21008 9% 121745 21582 132130 UK

EU 27886 1358143 599421 542757 785018 18% 468884 311584 573125 EU

* The United Kingdom withdrew from the European Union as of 1 February 2020. During the transition period, which ends on 31 December 2020, Union law, with a few limited exceptions, continues to be applicable to and in the United Kingdom. nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020 9

update December 2019

Land cover within the Natura 2000 network Natura 2000 network TERRESTRIAL MARINE (terrestrial and marine) SCI SPA Natura 2000 network SCI SPA Natura 2000 network The CORINE Land Cover (CLC) inventory was initiated in 1985 (reference year 1990). It consists of a harmonised inventory of Total N° Natura Total area SCI area SPA area Natura area % land area SCI area SPA area Natura area Member States 2000 Sites Natura 2000 km2 (km2) (km2) (km2) covered (km2) (km2) (km2) 44 land cover classes across all EU countries. Updates have been produced in 2000, 2006, 2012, and 2018. The CLC data is now AUSTRIA 352 12895 9378 10334 12895 15% n.a. n.a. n.a. AT part of the Copernicus programme. The Natura 2000 network was BELGIUM 310 5163 3282 3186 3891 13% 1128 318 1271 BE laid over the Corine Land Cover (level 1) to reveal the types of principal land use within the network as a whole and per country. BULGARIA 341 41554 33629 25609 38728 35% 2482 550 2827 BG The two most prominent categories – agricultural area and forest CYPRUS 62 10133 959 1493 1669 30% j j j 8457 110 j j j 8464 CY and semi-natural areas – are presented Water Artificial CZECH REPUBLIC 1153 11148 7951 7035 11148 14% n.a. n.a. n.a. CZ below for each country. As can bodies surfaces Wetlands 5% 1% be seen, the Natura 2000 5% GERMANY 5200 80831 33550 40263 55228 15% 20938 19738 25603 DE network as a whole is made

DENMARK 384 22664 3289 2488 3616 8% 16492 12176 19048 DK up mostly of forest and Agricultural semi-natural areas (65%) areas ESTONIA 567 14861 7806 6203 8106 18% 3883 6480 6754 EE 24% followed by agricultural SPAIN 1872 222515 117584 101619 138111 27% 54895 52071 84405 ES areas (24%), wetlands (5%) water bodies (5%) Forests and FINLAND 1866 50636 42197 24550 42495 13% 7676 7402 8141 FI semi-natural areas and artificial areas (1%). 65% FRANCE 1776 203564 48752 44016 70875 13% 106306 j 119646 j 132689 FR

GREECE 446 58778 21912 27761 35982 27% 17528 10764 22796 GR Agricultural Forest and semi- Country areaS natural areas CROATIA 783 25954 16036 17050 20716 37% 4919 1112 5238 HR Austria 19% 75% Belgium 32% 60% HUNGARY 525 19949 14442 13747 19949 21% n.a. n.a. n.a. HU Bulgaria 29% 68% Croatia 24% 71% IRELAND 604 19481 7163 4311 9226 13% 9781 1584 10255 IE Cyprus 15% 83% ITALY 2621 69302 42902 40295 57258 19% 6587 j j 8809 j j 12044 IT Czechia 25% 71% Denmark 30% 44% LITHUANIA 556 9699 6344 5530 8136 13% 958 1056 1563 LT Estonia 7% 61% Finland 0% 65% LUXEMBOURG 66 702 416 418 702 27% n.a. n.a. n.a. LU France 33% 60% Germany 38% 55% LATVIA 333 11834 7421 6607 7447 12% 2664 4280 4387 LV Greece 20% 75% MALTA 55 4184 41 16 42 13% 2283 3221 4142 MT Hungary 36% 54% Ireland 15% 30% NETHERLANDS 197 20605 3139 4771 5522 15% 12074 8627 15083 NL Italy 21% 74% Latvia 22% 58% POLAND 985 68405 34196 48428 61168 20% 4339 7224 7237 PL Lithuania 21% 67% Luxembourg 41% 57% PORTUGAL 167 61403 15655 9199 18970 21% 37383 8747 j j 42433 PT Malta 39% 57% ROMANIA 606 60577 40310 37118 54214 23% 6188 1630 6362 RO Netherlands 12% 34% Poland 34% 58% SWEDEN 4087 75854 55106 26448 55611 12% 20174 14448 20243 SE Portugal 40% 55% Romania 28% 61% SLOVENIA 355 7682 6634 5066 7672 38% 4 9 10 SI Slovakia 25% 74% Slovenia 20% 79% SLOVAKIA 683 14633 6151 13105 14633 30% n.a. n.a. n.a. SK Spain 24% 73% UNITED KINGDOM* 934 153137 13176 16091 21008 9% 121745 21582 132130 UK Sweden 1% 74% United Kingdom 5% 48% EU 27886 1358143 599421 542757 785018 18% 468884 311584 573125 EU Grand total 24% 65%

j Small increase in 2019 jj Moderate increase in 2019 jjj Substantial increase in 2019 10 nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020 © imageBROKER / Stock Alamy ©Photo imageBROKER

Last December the Commission adopted a new roadmap for a more sustainable growth agenda. The new European Green Deal © Xinhua / Alamy Stock Photo Stock / Alamy © Xinhua The new Commission The European Green Deal By working together, the 27 On 1 December 2019, the new will engage all sectors of Member States can significantly European Commission President the economy, especially transform the EU’s economy – Ursula von der Leyen – and transport, energy, agriculture, and society, and put them her team of 26 Commissioners construction and industries on a more sustainable path, began their five-year political like steel, cement, information building on its strengths as mandate. Just 10 days later, and communications a global leader on climate they set out an ambitious new technology, textiles and and environmental measures, “The European European Green Deal aimed at chemicals. consumer protection, and tackling the most pressing EU It will be further supported workers’ rights. Green Deal will environmental and climate- by a comprehensive However, as the drivers of turn Europe into related problems. investment drive designed to climate change and biodiversity the world’s first With the new strategy, these help the EU transition towards loss are global, Europe cannot challenges will be turned into a modern, resource-efficient act alone. The Commission will climate-neutral new opportunities across all EU and competitive economy. therefore continue to promote continent by 2050.” policy areas to boost the The ultimate goal is to its environmental goals and economy, while promoting a decouple economic growth standards internationally, President Ursula von der Leyen transition towards a more from resource use and to leading by example and using sustainable growth agenda that restore environmental quality its influence and expertise to is socially just and leaves and health for both people mobilise other nations to follow no-one behind. and nature. a more sustainable path. nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020 11

Priorities for 2020 The details of the new Green Deal are set out in a Commission to reinforce cross-border cooperation over the protection and communication, published on 11 December 2019. The document restoration of sites within the Natura 2000 network. outlines over 50 key policy initiatives and concrete actions that the Additionally, the Commission will identify measures (including Commission will put forward progressively over the next few years legislation) which would help Member States improve and (see roadmap below): restore damaged ecosystems, including carbon-rich ecosystems. Several initiatives are directly relevant for biodiversity. They This could take the form of a nature restoration plan supported include the following: by targeted funding. Proposals will also be made to green • A European ‘Climate Law’ will be proposed by March 2020. European cities and increase biodiversity in urban spaces. This will enshrine the 2050 climate neutrality objective in • A new ‘Farm to Fork’ Strategy will be put forward in Spring legislation. The Climate Law will also ensure that all EU policies 2020 to pave the way for a more sustainable food policy. This contribute to the climate neutrality objective and that all sectors will be combined with the launch of a broad stakeholder debate play their part. In parallel, the Climate Law will address the risk covering all the stages of the food chain. The new Strategy of carbon leakage in order to avoid that production is transferred will aim to strengthen the efforts of European farmers and from the EU to other countries with lower climate ambitions or fishermen to tackle climate change, protect the environment that EU products are replaced by more carbon-intensive imports. and preserve biodiversity as well as reduce the environmental As the world’s largest single market, the EU is in a strong impact of the food processing and retail sectors. position to set standards that apply across global value chains. As the Common Agriculture Policy and Common Fisheries Industry also seems ready for this move. In November 2019, Policy for 2021–2027 will remain the main support mechanisms 44 of Europe’s largest investors, representing €6 trillion of for farmers and fishermen, the Commission will work closely assets, called on the EU to adopt, as quickly as possible, a new with the Member States and stakeholders to ensure that, from climate law for climate neutrality by 2050. This, they say, the outset, the new National Strategic Plans for agriculture and should give them the confidence to make long-term decisions fisheries fully reflect the ambitions of the Green Deal and the about investments. Farm to Fork Strategy. Moreover, during the course of 2021, the • A new Biodiversity Strategy will also be proposed by the end Commission will identify the measures (including legislation) of March 2020, and will be followed by a detailed action plan in that are needed to significantly reduce the use and risk of 2021. The strategy will outline the EU’s position and ambitions chemical pesticides, fertilisers and antibiotics. for a new global biodiversity framework, expected to be adopted • Also in 2021, the Commission will adopt a zero pollution at the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biodiversity action plan for air, water and soil. The EU needs to better next October. monitor, report, prevent and remedy pollution from air, water, As Europe aims to lead by example, the Biodiversity Strategy soil, and consumer products in order to better protect its citizens will identify specific targets and measures. These could include and the environment. This means looking more systematically quantified objectives, such as increasing the coverage of at all policies and regulations with a view to strengthening and protected biodiversity-rich land and sea areas, building on the enforcing existing laws or proposing new measures where gaps Natura 2000 network. Member States will also be encouraged are identified. © eye35 / Alamy Stock Photo Stock ©/ eye35 Alamy Mobilising research and fostering innovation New technologies, sustainable solutions and major innovation are critical to achieve the objectives of the European Green Deal. To keep its competitive advantage in clean technologies, the EU will need to significantly increase the large-scale deployment and demonstration of new technologies across sectors and across the single market, building new innovative value chains. The Horizon Europe programme, in synergy with other EU programmes, can play a pivotal role in leveraging national public and private investments in this sector. The intention is therefore to allocate at least 35% of the Horizon Europe budget to financing research into new solutions for climate, that are relevant for implementing the Green Deal. Four ‘Green Deal Missions’ will help deliver large-scale changes in areas such as adaptation to climate change, oceans, cities and soil. These missions will bring a wide range of stakeholders together, including regions and citizens. Partnerships with industry and Member States will also support research and innovation on transport, including batteries, clean hydrogen, low-carbon steel making, circular bio-based sectors and the built environment.

In 2020, the Commission will propose a new strategy for sustainable and smart mobility. 12 nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020

Financing the Green Deal Key elements of the European Green Deal Clearly, meeting the objectives Key Actions Key Measures foreseen in 2020 of the European Green Deal will require significant additional Increasing the EU’s Climate • A European Climate Law enshrining the 2050 climate investment. The Commission ambition for 2030 and 2050 neutrality objective in legislation by March 2020 has estimated that achieving • Comprehensive plan to increase the EU 2030 climate target the current 2030 climate to at least 50% by October 2020 and energy targets alone will require €260 billion of Supplying clean, affordable and • Assess the ambition of the final National Energy and additional annual investment, secure energy Climate plans by June 2020 which represents about 1.5% of • Review of the Trans-European Network – Energy Regulation 2018 GDP. This means that both • Offshore Wind initiative the public and private sectors will need to be mobilised. Mobilising industry for a clean • EU industrial Strategy by March 2020 To kick-start this new and circular economy • A new Circular Economy Action Plan, including a investment drive, the sustainable products policy by March 2020 Commission launched Building and renovating • Renovation wave for the building sector aiming to double a Sustainable Europe in an energy and resource- the current renovation rate Investment Plan in January efficient way 2020 to mobilise EU funding and create an enabling A zero pollution ambition for a • Chemicals Strategy for sustainability in June 2020 framework to facilitate and toxic-free environment • Zero pollution action plan for air, water and soil in 2021 stimulate the public and private investments needed for the Preserving and restoring • EU biodiversity strategy for 2030 by March 2020 transition towards a climate- ecosystems and biodiversity • New EU forest strategy neutral, green, competitive and inclusive economy. From Farm to Fork: a fair, • Farm to Fork strategy in Spring 2020 Complementing other healthy and environmentally initiatives announced under the friendly food system Green Deal, the plan is based on three dimensions: financing Accelerating the shift to a • Strategy for sustainable and smart mobility to mobilise at least €1 trillion sustainable and smart mobility of sustainable investments over Financing the transition whilst • Proposal for a Just Transition Mechanism, including a Just the next decade; enabling by leaving no-one behind Transition Fund and a Sustainable Europe Investment Plan providing incentives to unlock in January 2020 and redirect public and private investment; and practical The EU as a global leader • Continue to lead the international climate and biodiversity support from the Commission negotiations, further strengthening the international to public authorities and policy framework project promoters in planning, designing and executing Working together • Launch a European Climate pact March 2020 sustainable projects. • 8th Environmental Action Plan The EU’s budget will play a key role in pump-priming this investment drive. The proposal The new EU Farm to Fork strategy will cover all stages of the food chain. © Ian G Dagnall / Alamy Stock Photo Stock / Alamy ©G Ian Dagnall is to allocate 25% of the budget to climate mainstreaming across all EU programmes under the new Multiannual Financial Framework for 2021–2027. The European Investment Bank will also be heavily involved through its Invest EU fund. Because not all Member States are at the same starting point, a Just Transition Mechanism will be set up to channel at least €100 billion into those regions that are most exposed to the economic and social challenges of the nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020 13 © Andy Rouse / naturepl.com Rouse © Andy Europe’s State of the Environment 2020 In December 2019, The European Environment Agency published its latest report on the ‘European environment — state and outlook 2020 (SOER 2020)’. It concludes that overall environmental trends in Europe have not improved since the last EEA report in 2015. The assessment notes however that, while most of the 2020 targets will not be achieved, especially those on biodiversity, there is still a chance to meet the longer-term goals and objectives for 2030 and 2050. Europe has made important gains in resource efficiency and the circular economy. However, recent trends highlight a slowing down of progress in areas such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, industrial emissions, waste generation, improving energy efficiency and the share of renewable energy. Looking ahead, the current rate of progress will not be enough to meet 2030 and 2050 climate and energy targets. There has been much less progress in achieving objectives for the protection and conservation of European biodiversity and nature than for other areas. Of the 13 specific policy objectives set for 2020 in this area, only two are likely to Europe intends to lead by example on the global climate challenge. be met: designating marine protected areas and terrestrial protected areas. Looking ahead to 2030, if current trends continue, further deterioration of nature and continued transition to a climate neutral of the threat and the challenge pollution of air, water and soil is expected. economy. These regions are of climate change and The inevitable impacts of climate change, air and noise still highly dependent on fossil environmental degradation, and pollution on the environment and human health are also fuels or on carbon-intensive share ideas on how to counter still of concern. Exposure to fine particulate matter is processes. At the same time, this. The Commission will use responsible for around 400 000 premature deaths in Europe the mechanism will also protect multiple channels and tools every year, affecting central and eastern European countries citizens, re-skill workers and to do so, including events in disproportionally. There is also growing concern over help create jobs in emerging Member States, drawing on its hazardous chemicals and the risks they pose. Looking ahead, climate neutral economic experience with its on-going the prospects for reducing environmental risks to health sectors, or in energy-efficient citizens’ dialogues. could be improved with a better integration of environment housing. Secondly, both real and and health policies. Finally, the private sector virtual spaces will be created The report urges European countries, leaders and will also be encouraged to for people to express their policymakers to seize the opportunity and use the next contribute to financing the green ideas and creativity, and work decade to radically scale up and speed up actions to put transition. The Commission together, both at individual and Europe back on track to meeting its medium and longer-term will therefore present a Green collective level. Participants will environmental policy goals and targets to avoid irreversible Financing Strategy in the be encouraged to commit to change and damage. third quarter of 2020 that will specific climate action goals. focus on a number of actions to Thirdly, the Commission will https://bit.ly/3762Hqw promote and mobilise private work on building capacity to sustainable finance. facilitate grassroots initiatives Progress in reducing air, water and soil pollution across Europe has on climate change and been slowing down in recent years. Involving civil society environmental protection and © Laurent Geslin / naturepl.com Geslin © Laurent The involvement and encourage an exchange of commitment of the public good practices. and of all stakeholders is crucial to the success of Endorsing the the European Green Deal. European Green Deal Recent political events show The Commission presented that game-changing policies the Green Deal to both the only work if citizens are fully European Parliament and the involved in designing them. European Council in December The Commission will therefore 2019 in order to receive their launch a European Climate full backing for its overall Pact by March 2020 to focus on political ambition and for the different ways to engage with measures proposed. the public on climate action. Full details on the European The first step will be to foster Green Deal are available on: a greater public understanding https://bit.ly/36YWBrG 14 nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020

• news • publicationS • events

2000 managers continue to The 2020 State of make to protecting and Nature report managing European nature. After two years of intensive data The finalists for each of gathering and reporting, Member the five award categories States have now submitted their – communication, socio- national reports to the economic benefits, Commission on the conservation conservation, reconciling status of species and habitats interests and perceptions, that are protected under the two cross-border cooperation and Nature Directives and present in networking – was announced their territory. This exercise is in February. A high-level jury done every six years and involves will now decide on the winners, the collation of over 15,000 to be revealed at a major datasets on individual species and award ceremony in Brussels in habitats from all EU countries. June during Green Week. The European Environment A sixth award will also Agency’s Topic Centre for be given to the finalist who Biodiversity is currently cross- receives the most public votes. checking the national reports in So, be sure to cast your vote order to be able to aggregate the for your favourite project results at an EU level. This will before mid May. Last time over lead to the publication of a new 50,000 people voted. State of EU Nature report in See: https://bit.ly/30JP6Dr October 2020. First results will, however, be presented in Green

© Markus © Varesvuo/naturepl.com/Alamy Stock Photo Green Week 2020 Week in June 2020. Bearded vulture Gypaetus barbatus, Spain. This year’s EU Green Week See: https://bit.ly/38sbvYG 2020, to be held in Brussels from 1–5 June, will put the New LIFE nature projects A new EU Raptor reduction in prey, electrocution spotlight on the looming global Last autumn, 52 new nature and Conservation Strategy and collisions with powerlines. biodiversity crisis. The aim is biodiversity projects were agreed In January, the Commission In the case of migratory species, to explore possible pathways for funding under the EU LIFE published a new all- these pressures are often for change and examine how programme, representing a total encompassing report on the EU’s exacerbated during periods of a range of EU policies – such investment of €260 million, with Strategic Approach to Raptor migration and over-wintering, as the new European Green around €160 million coming Conservation, as requested hence the need for a strategic Deal – can help step-up from LIFE. Projects will again under the Convention on coordinated approach along actions to protect, restore and tackle a wide range of issues Migratory Species (CMS). The their flyway. sustainably manage nature, from controlling invasive document details the full range See: https://bit.ly/3c4VfPX both in Europe and across species, such as the American of activities that are underway, the globe. bullfrog in Belgium or American within the existing EU legal Natura 2000 award Green Week also marks an mink in Greece and restoring framework, notably the Birds On 15 October 2019, the fifth important milestone along the important wildlife habitats along Directive, to protect and improve edition of the Natura 2000 path to the 15th Biodiversity the Danube or in Swedish, the conservation of raptor Award closed for applications. Convention conference in Spanish and Scottish rivers, to species that occur in Europe. Eighty eligible applications were Kunming, China, in October preserving old-growth forests in Many of the 50 species of received from 27 EU Member 2020, where world leaders will Romania and conserving birds of prey present in the EU States, which is more than in the need to adopt a new 10-year threatened species, such as the remain under threat from a previous edition. The range of action plan for biodiversity – lesser spotted eagle in Bulgaria range of activities, including themes covered is as impressive dubbed the new global deal for or the fire-bellied toad in Slovenia illegal killing and poisoning, as ever and illustrates the very people and nature. and Denmark. habitat loss and degradation, a real contributions that Natura See: https://bit.ly/36fUUWv See: https://bit.ly/2RIS8E9 nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020 15 © Project website website © Project under the Action Plan for before going on to identify the Nature, People and the key actions and measures that Economy, the Commission are required to improve their published a series of good conservation within the EU. practice examples recently to Both plans are the result of two illustrate how different types of years of extensive consultations NEEI activities have succeeded with leading scientific experts, in practice to meet the demand stakeholders and competent for raw materials, whilst at Member States’ authorities. the same time safeguarding See: https://bit.ly/2TI5tz7 Natura 2000 sites, and, where possible, further enhancing Latest on the biodiversity, especially through Biogeographical land restoration. Process See: https://bit.ly/30GqrzQ The Atlantic and Boreal Natura 2000 seminars, held in 2019, New Habitat helped to build capacity and Action Plans develop transboundary In November 2019, the cooperation priorities across the Commission published the first Natura 2000 community, for Conducting a population survey of freshwater pearl mussels under the ever EU Habitat Action Plan for instance in relation to Interreg programme. semi-natural dry grasslands identifying conservation and scrubland facies on measures or improving The EU Interreg The Non-Energy calcareous substrates (6210), landscape connectivity. Last programme and Extractive Industry and a habitat type protected under year also saw various technical Natura 2000 Natura 2000 the Habitats Directive. A second workshops being organised In place since 1990, Interreg The Non-Energy Extractive Action Plan for European dry across the EU on a wide range provides a framework for the Industry (NEEI) provides many heaths (code 4030) will be of topics, from remote sensing implementation of joint actions of the basic raw materials for published in spring. to calcareous grassland between national, regional Europe’s manufacturing and Both habitat types are present conservation and marine site and local actors from different construction industries. In 2011, in a large number of Member management. Member States. This includes the Commission published States and have an unfavourable The third Alpine and actions to protect and restore guidance to assist the industry conservation status across much Mediterranean seminars will be Europe’s biodiversity. in ensuring their extraction of their range. They are also held in 2020, the dates will be Under the current programme plans and projects are in line important refuges for many announced soon. (2014–2020) around with the requirements of EU other protected species and See: https://bit.ly/36hpoHR €581 million of EU investment nature legislation and avoid or pollinator species. is foreseen for nature and minimise any potential effects The action plans describe Update on the Large biodiversity. Of this, €163 million on Natura 2000 sites. the conservation status, Carnivores Platform is specifically for the protection, In order to complement this ecological requirements and The EU Platform on Coexistence restoration and sustainable use guidance, and as foreseen major threats to the habitats between People and Large of Natura 2000 sites. Around 190 projects involving Natura 2000 sites have been funded European dry heaths are present in 24 Member States and have mostly an unfavourable conservation status. since 2000, which represents a / naturepl.com Pattyn © David total EU investment of almost of €200 million. In January this year, the Commission published a report on the use of Interreg for the management of cross-border or transnational Natura 2000 sites and protected species, such as the European lnyx, freshwater pearl mussel or common tern, in order to illustrate the wide range of activities that can be funded under the programme. The aim is to encourage further applications for nature and biodiversity under Interreg. See: https://bit.ly/2VmKHpA 16 nature and biodiversity newsletter | February 2020

Carnivores continues to explore / naturepl.com D’Amicie © Bruno initiatives that are integrating ways of minimising conflicts natural capital and biodiversity between human interests and into their daily management large carnivore species. During practices, and taking practical the course of 2019 and early action for nature on the ground. 2020, several regional or local They include initiatives such meetings were held in Romania, as ‘Value Balancing Alliance’, Italy, Spain, Germany and ‘Business for Nature’ or ‘One Austria. Plans are also afoot Planet Business for Biodiversity’. to establish further regional See: https://bit.ly/2O4FFJZ platforms in France, Germany and Sweden under two EU- Results of the funded projects. newsletter survey Meanwhile, a Frequently We would like to thank all those Asked Questions paper who took the time to complete has been drafted on large the online survey on this carnivores in Europe and their Flowering mountain pasture, Gran Sasso National Park, Central newsletter. We received over common misperceptions. A new Apennines, Italy. 500 replies in all! We are happy interactive webpage has also to report that the vast majority been produced to illustrate the EU agricultural and regional up the integration of natural of respondents were generally different measures that Member development policies to the capital and biodiversity into satisfied, rating the contents of States are taking to tackle conservation of pollinators and economic decision-making, the newsletter as good (58.4%) conflicts in different regions of discussed how to build on the in the run-up to the 2020 UN or excellent (26.9%). the EU. This will be updated at lessons learnt to ensure more Biodiversity Conference. There were also a lot of useful regular intervals. effective measures and projects Because mobilising the comments and suggestions on See: https://bit.ly/36fQy1H during the 2021-2027 period. private sector is such a critical how the newsletter could be See: https://bit.ly/3aydjkC part of delivering an ambitious further improved in years to EU Conference post-2020 biodiversity come. We will make every effort on pollinators Global business meets framework, the summit drew to take these into account in The European Commission to act for nature particular attention to various future issues. and the European Committee In November 2019, over 320 of the Regions co-organised representatives from business a Conference on “Halting the and finance communities, as PLEASE RE-SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER loss of pollinators: the role well as governments and civil Please remember to re-subscribe to the newsletter if you of the EU agricultural and society convened in Madrid for wish to continue to receive a paper copy in one of the regional development policies” the European Business and following languages: English, French, German, Spanish, on 21 February in Brussels. Nature Summit (EBNS). The Italian or Polish. The current mailing list will be cancelled The conference took stock of Summit provided an opportunity after this issue. Go to: https://bit.ly/2GcrZrZ the contribution of the current to discuss ways of scaling

The Natura 2000 Newsletter is produced by DG Environment, European Commission. Author: Kerstin Sundseth Ecosystems LTD, Brussels. Commission Editor: Sofia Pachini, DG Environment. Design: www.naturebureau.co.uk Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 2020. © European Union, 2020 Reuse is authorised provided the source is acknowledged. The reuse policy of European Commission documents is regulated by Decision 2011/833/EU (OJ L 330, 14.12.2011, p. 39). For any use or reproduction of photos or other material that is not under the EU copyright, permission must be sought directly from the copyright holders. The newsletter does not necessarily reflect the official view of the European Commission. Photos: Cover © Sven Zacek / naturepl.com; p. 2 © Pat Tucson / naturepl.com, © SolStock, © imageBROKER / Alamy Stock Photo, © Bruno D’Amicie / naturepl.com, © Dati Bendo / European Commission; p. 3 © Rudmer Zwerver / Alamy Stock Photo; p. 4 © David Tipling / naturepl.com; p. 5 © Arterra Picture Library / Alamy Stock Photo; p. 6 © SolStock; p. 7 © Antoninapotapenko / iStock; p. 10 © Xinhua / Alamy Stock Photo © imageBROKER / Alamy Stock Photo; p. 11 © eye35 / Alamy Stock Photo; p. 12 © Ian G Dagnall / Alamy Stock Photo; p. 13 © Andy Rouse / naturepl.com; p. 14 © Markus Varesvuo / naturepl.com / Alamy Stock Photo; p. 15 © Project website, © David Pattyn / naturepl.com; p. 16 © Bruno D’Amicie / naturepl.com

Print ISSN 1026-6151 KH-AA-20-001-EN-C PDF ISSN 2443-7727 KH-AA-20-001-EN-N