In Hungary, the total area protected either by national or EU legislation has grown to 22 % of the total territory. There is however a remarkable lack of useful information for land users (e.g. farmers) on Natura 2000 areas and very little information available on protected natural areas of local interest – this lack of knowledge is an important risk for the preservation of the areas. Another risk for the naturally valuable areas has arisen with the EU agricultural subsidy system. Farmers in fact try to maximize the agricultural subsidies with measures like drainages to increase the land eligible for subsidies.

The goal is to strengthen the protection of Natura 2000 areas and protected natural areas of local interest. For this purpose, data on Natura 2000 areas and on protected natural areas of local interest is collected and provided to stakeholders like farmers, mayors, politicians, but as well younger generations. Thanks to better information and awareness raising measures, there shall be a significant change in nature protection by these groups.

Different target groups such as farmers, politicians, mayors, but as well scientists or children and pupils.

With the help of supporting organisations, extensive data will be collected on protected natural areas of local interest and Natura 2000. The information will be made available mainly for farmers, politicians in a user-friendly way on a webpage, in information events in the counties as well as in publications. These activities are complemented by a nationwide awareness raising campaign on conservation issues targeting especially younger people.

Erreichte Resultate:  

• High quality inventory available on 46'000 ha "Natura 2000" areas
• High quality inventory available for over 1'000 locally protected areas
• Awareness of protected areas has been raised, reaching hundred thousands of people through
• Improved webpage on Natura 2000 and protected natural areas of local interest
• Camapigns, competitions, publications, maps, films, etc.
• Information events, media appearances, press articles
• 45 bird species and 45 habitats assessed and measures for their conservation developped

Phase 1 01.09.2012 - 31.12.2014   (Completed)