OO. 3.1 Develop an integrated, representative and coherent network of terrestrial protected areas at national and transboundary level
Release date | 16/06/2009 |
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The aim of this operational objective is to enhance existing terrestrial19 networks of protected areas over the three Regions and to promote interconnectivity between them and with neighbouring countries. It is based on the concept of ecological network*, and will include the ecological requirements of the priority components of biodiversity in order to ensure their maintenance or rehabilitation in a favourable conservation status. As small landscape elements play a key role in ensuring connectivity between networks, their conservation and/or rehabilitation will be promoted.
The adequation of biodiversity hotspots, defined on the basis of scientific criteria, with protection regime should be ensured.
In accordance with Objectives 1 and 2, the integrated management of protected areas should apply the ecosystem approach. The network of protected areas should also be integrated into its socio-economic context and wider environment to enable adequate buffering of external influences on the network elements. Measures taken in the framework of Objectives 4 and 5 should particularly take into account the network of protected areas.