Conflicts and Impacts of Recreational Activities on Natura 2000
Natura 2000 areas are frequently used for various sports and recreational activities due to their specific regional characteristics and the beauty of their habitats. Many sports have developed in close connection with specific habitat types and can almost only be practiced in these environments. For example, winter sports are linked to mountain meadows and alpine habitats, climbing is linked to rocky terrains, and numerous water sports are tied to aquatic habitats. Given this close relationship, it is essential to analyze the impacts of these landscape-related activities on the areas and their conservation goals. This assessment should consider the perspectives of recreational users, tourists, and nature sports enthusiasts, as well as the management objectives of Natura 2000.
The Habitat Directive mandates a ban on deterioration for Natura 2000 sites, ensuring that any sport or recreational activity must be compatible with the conservation objectives of the respective area.
Categorizing different types of sports and recreational activities allows for a nuanced examination of their compatibility with the conservation goals outlined in the Habitat Directive.
- Type 1: Includes infrastructure-dependent activities in open landscapes, such as golf on golf courses or alpine skiing
- Type 2: Comprises activities reliant on specific natural and landscape features, including hiking tours in the Alps, climbing in mid-mountain ranges, and canoeing in small and medium-sized rivers.
- Type 3: Covers activities that do not have particular requirements, such as cycling or walking.
Special attention must also be paid to events and gatherings, as these can sometimes lead to significant disturbances. Such impacts may arise from spectators, accompanying activities featuring music or commentary, or from transportation via cars and buses. In these instances, an compatibility assessment according to the Habitat Directive or a species protection assessment according §§ 44 BNatschG may be necessary for event approval.
Management plans for Natura 2000 sites can serve as effective tools for preventing problems and regulating the use of these areas for sports and recreational activities. It is crucial to involve all stakeholders affected by the management plan regulations.
Sources
Garbe, C., Pröbstl, U., Meyer, M., & Räth, B. (2005). Natura 2000 and Sustainable Tourism in Sensitive Areas: Recommendations for Tourism Management in Natura 2000 Areas in the Context of Sustainable Tourism Development. Federal Agency for Nature Conservation/BfN-Skripten 134. Bonn.
Pröbstl, U. & Prutsch, A. (2009). Natura 2000, Sports, and Tourism: A Guide to the Application of the Fauna-Flora-Habitat Directive and the Birds Directive. Ed.: Federal Agency for Nature Conservation/BfN, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, Federal Environment Agency/UBA, Stichting Recreatie GmbH, German Olympic Sports Confederation/DOSB. Bonn.