The Natura 2000 network is an environmental policy tool of the European Union, created under the Habitats Directive (No. 92/43/EEC), whose purpose is to ensure the conservation of certain specific environmental types (habitats), while also taking into account ‘the economic, social and cultural requirements, as well as the regional and local characteristics’ of the areas. It consists of a network of areas called Special Areas of Conservation or Special Protection Areas, depending on the type. SACs are sometimes still identified by the name SCI, Site of Community Importance. Some of these areas are already included within Parks and Nature Reserves, while others are not.
Protection is implemented through specific conservation measures that include both prohibitions and incentives. The Directive also recognises the naturalistic importance of semi-natural habitats, such as pastures, and provides that certain human activities, such as sheep farming, may be encouraged as necessary for maintaining the site in a favourable state of conservation. The implementation of projects, plans and activities in a Natura 2000 area is subject to a specific authorisation procedure called “Impact Assessment”, which determines their compatibility with the ecological needs of the species and habitats protected in that specific site.
For further information, please consult the dedicated pages on the Lazio Region website (https://www.regione.lazio.it/) and the Ministry of the Environment website (https://www.minambiente.it/pagina/rete-natura-2000). The questions and answers on the European Commission website (https://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/faq_it.htm) are also interesting for those who are curious to learn more.
