170 likes | 256 Views
This program oversees 170 ongoing nature conservation projects in 16 countries, supporting Natura 2000 initiatives to protect biodiversity across the EU. With formal reviews and technical assistance, it ensures high-quality projects and fosters partnerships with stakeholders and local communities. The team provides guidance and funding for initiatives that address environmental challenges, promote sustainability, and enhance the Natura 2000 network. Stay informed on the latest developments, application processes, and successful strategies in nature conservation in Europe.
E N D
LIFE NATURE 2004 • Monitoring team Nature Link: • Monitors 170 on-going projects in 16 countries • provides an informal link between Commission and beneficiary during project • undertakes technical reviews of projects: • Natura 2000 Newsletter • LIFE-Nature projects and agri-environment • Conserving mires in the EU
LIFE NATURE 2004 • Contacts in Nature Link for Estonia: • Marita Karling - principle contact • tel: 0032 2 646 6950 • marita.karling@ecosystems.be • Mats Eriksson - back up • tel: 0046 31 94 87 91 • mke.eriksson@swipnet.se • Kerstin Sundseth - overall coordination • tel: 0032 2 646 6950 • Kerstin.Sundseth@ecosystems.be
LIFE NATURE 2004 • European Commission - DG Environment: • The LIFE UNIT (D1) • Bruno Julien - Head of Unit • Eleni Borg Tsansekidou - Baltic states desk officer • The Nature and Biodiversity Unit (B2) • Nick Hanley - Head of Unit • Anja Finne - Baltic States Desk Officer
LIFE NATURE 2004 • LIFE Nature for Natura 2000 Network: • Natura 2000 Network currently 16,000 sites across EU • 15% of EU territory - an area the size of Germany and Italy put together ! • Likely to increase to 20,000 sites • 2004 a pivotal year - adoption of biogeographical lists, accession 10 new Member States
LIFE NATURE 2004 • LIFE Nature for Natura 2000: • the only dedicated fund for Natura 2000 • average 70 million € a year for 80 projects • so far 10% of sites addressed • to demonstrate Natura 2000 in practice
LIFE NATURE 2004 • Only high quality projects: • to help set up Natura 2000 -(inventories/ man plans) • to initiate long term solutions for the areas • to create effective partnerships with stakeholders and local communities • to develop best practice techniques through strategic thematic projects
LIFE NATURE 2004 • Strong Competition: • level playing field for all countries • no national quotas • 3 times more proposals than funds • only highest quality projects get through • projects have to be ready to run
LIFE NATURA 2004 • Application based on Logical Framework: A useful tool to: • formulate ideas better • set them out in clear standardised way • take all elements into account for long lasting results
PREPARING A PROJECT STEPS TO FOLLOW: LIFE-NATURE FORMS Problems identified Objective of the project Results to be achieved Activities to be undertaken Costs involved Section B Section C Section D
The Problem Understanding the problems facing a site or species is fundamental to determining what needs to be done Drainage ditches No control over land use Tree encroachment Desiccation Degradation Loss of Natura 2000 value Section B of the application
The Solution Be sure to establish a clear link between the problems and the objectives of the project Block ditches Gain control over land Remove trees Rewet site Restore site Increase Natura 2000 value Section C of the application
LIFE NATURE 2004 Proper planning Problems identified and addressed Results sustainable and long-lasting Success of a project Organisational capacity sufficient Objectives and actions realistic and defined Risks properly evaluated and taken into account
LIFE NATURE 2004 • three Criteria for selection: • coherence and quality • conservation benefit • socio-economic aspects
LIFE Nature 2004 • What’s new: • additional list of habitats and species for candidate countries - May 2004 • Natura 2000 - May 2004 • compatibility with other EU funds • financial viability of applicants - bank guarentee and profit loss accounts for NGOS • land purchase price • awareness raising N2000
LIFE Nature 2004 • Common problems: • Insufficient descriptions for actions,threats … • logical link between threat, actions results • proportionality re cost/benefits for nature • projects premature - not enough feasability studies or consultation • partnerships unclear or missing • legal protection of areas unclear
Common problems • land purchase • Infrastructure, personnel, durable goods • statutory duties included • 75% not an automatic rate • constraints and continuation