SEO/BirdLife Marks Natura 2000 Day in Spain

Why this is here: Spain contributes to the Natura 2000 network with over 1,800 protected spaces, representing the largest national contribution to the network’s total area.

SEO/BirdLife in Madrid joins the annual celebration of the European Natura 2000 Day on May 21st. The organization originally proposed the day in 2013, partnering with EFE Verde of the Agencia EFE. The European Union uses this day to raise awareness about the Natura 2000 network—the world’s largest protected area network—and promote natural heritage conservation.

Spain initiated the celebration as part of the Life+ ‘Activa Red Natura 2000’ project, aiming to involve citizens in protecting these areas. In 2017, the European Commission officially added May 21st to the community calendar, coinciding with the network’s 25th anniversary. The date commemorates the signing of the Habitats Directive in 1992 and the launch of the Life program.

The Natura 2000 network encompasses over 27,000 natural spaces across Europe, covering 18% of the EU’s land and 6% of its marine area. Spain contributes the largest portion of this network, with more than 1,800 protected spaces covering 30% of its territory.

The organization encourages public participation through a “Butterfly Effect” campaign, asking people to share photos online. Challenges remain in securing legal protection for all valuable spaces.