European Natura 2000 Day is celebrated every year on 21 May. It marks the inception, 33 years ago, of a revolutionary approach to nature conservation in the EU – a large network of protected nature that maintains opportunities for economic and recreational development.
The Natura 2000 network, created under the EU’s nature legislation – namely, the Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive – aims to ensure the long-term survival of Europe’s most valuable and threatened species and habitats. Today, Natura 2000 encompasses over 27,000 sites, covering 18% of the EU’s land area and a significant portion of its surrounding seas, making it the largest coordinated network of protected areas in the world. It protects over a thousand rare and threatened species and more than 200 unique habitat types.
Take part in the Natura 2000 Day Bioblitz!
Celebrate Natura 2000 Day with us and explore one of the more than 70 Natura 2000 sites that take part in the “Natura 2000 Day Bioblitz”, a community-driven event focused on identifying as many species as possible within a designated area and time period. All observations that are recorded on the ObsIdentify app or Observation.org platform during the Bioblitz event are automatically counted and presented on the Observation.org website. Organized in collaboration with Observation International, this event runs until Sunday 25 May.
The Bioblitz not only contributes valuable data to ongoing conservation efforts, but also serves as an educational tool, fostering a deeper appreciation for biodiversity and the critical role of each species within its ecosystem. By involving the public in nature observation, the Bioblitz helps nurture a community that is informed, engaged, and inspired to protect natural environments.
Natura 2000: more than nature conservation
The impact of Natura 2000 resonates far beyond its conservation goals. The network is vital not only for preserving biodiversity but also for its role in mitigating climate change impacts, supporting sustainable economies, and enhancing the quality of life through ecosystem services that preserve air, water, and soil quality. People all over the EU enjoy Natura 2000 sites as they practice their favourite hobbies, like running, mountain biking, climbing or hiking. The benefits of these natural spaces, and not least their sheer beauty, underscore the importance of collective stewardship of our natural resources.
More info
Interested in learning more about European Natura 2000 Day, discover which Natura 2000 is close to you and how you can join our Natura 2000 Day Bioblitz?
