II. Main Cultural products 5. Nature Section 5.2: Resources Utilized

5.2.2. Figures of Protection

The figures of protection ensure good state of conservation of the resource, thus offering an attraction for nature tourism.

• Biosphere Reserves. These are zones of land or coastal/marine ecosystems or a combination of these, recognized internationally as such in the framework of the Programme on Man and the Biosphere (MAB) of the UNESCO. The World Network of Biosphere Reserves functions as a model that indicates how human beings must live with nature.
• Wetlands included in the RAMSAR Agreement. These are wetlands of international importance, especially as a habitat of aquatic birds.
• Natura 2000 Network. This network is one of the tools of the European Union for the application of a common policy on the subject of the environment, created by the “Habitats Directive”. The Natura 2000 Network must ensure the protection of European biodiversity, including not only natural areas, but also semi-natural habitats that are the result of secular interaction of man and his activities. It is composed of Sites of Community Interest (SCI) and Special Protection Areas for birds (SPAs).
• Important Bird Areas (IBA). These are areas of international importance for the conservation of birds that form a part of an integrated and wider proposal for conservation of biodiversity, the SEO/Bird Life Conservation Strategy, which also includes the protection of species and habitats.
• Geoparks. A territory which includes a specific geological heritage and a strategy for sustainable territorial development supported by the European Programme of Promotion, as well as geological points of particular importance according to their scientific quality, rarity, aesthetic value or educational value. It must have well-defined limits and sufficient territory for true economic development.
• Species of flora or species of protected fauna. There are “red lists” that serve as a conservation tool, promoted by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). At first, its use was considered on the worldwide scale, although currently the lists of national or regional areas are promoted. The category of each threatenedn specie is indicated.
• Protected Natural Areas (PNAs). These are areas that contain natural elements and systems of special interest or outstanding natural values. There are usually laws that grant them protection. Included among the PNAs are National Parks, Natural Parks, Natural Reserves, Protected Landscapes, etc.
• Others. Specific figures of protection of each country or region.

5.2.1. Elements of The Natural Environment

5.2.3. Activities