Description
LIFE+ TEN project - Implementation of integrated habitat protection and socio-economic development projects
The situation
The ability to reconcile the demands of species and habitat protection with the socio-economic development of society is certainly one of the most demanding but also most stimulating challenges facing the NATURA 2000 network.
The problem
Until recently, nature conservation policies have been implemented in total or quasi-independence and sometimes in opposition to the socio-economic development of local communities, as if they were not only distinct and independent but also distant from each other - the conservation and the social and economic spheres. This is a situation that in a modern view of integrated land management and not by 'watertight compartments' is certainly no longer admissible.
Objective of the action
Action realised on Mount Baldo and in Valle di Ledro, areas characterised by the presence of numerous NATURA 2000 Network sites and by the presence of Reserve Networks already established or in an advanced stage of realisation. For each area it is foreseen to design sustainable development initiatives of the local economy based on the enhancement and active protection of habitats and species of Community interest thanks to the financial support provided by the P.S.R. and the F.E.S.R.
Expected results
- Drafting of two integrated development projects for Trentino Mount Baldo and Ledro Valley. Within the framework of these projects, priorities for the proper management of the local NATURA 2000 Network sites will be identified and an economic strategy supported by financial instruments (funds for the agricultural sector, tourism and regional development) different from those usually used for the management of protected areas will be drawn up.
- Furthermore, thanks to integrated development projects, it will be possible to understand how habitat and species protection policies not only do not represent an obstacle but can actually become significant opportunities for sustainable socio-economic development.
Documentation