While 14% of the Brussels-Capital Region's territory has been designated as a protected 'Natura 2000' area, the concrete management plans for it have yet to be approved. Brussels Environment Minister Alain Maron wants to speed up the process.
'Natura 2000' is a European network of nature protection areas. In 2004, EU Member States committed to reconciling the protection of biodiversity with human activities. Brussels counts about 50 of these areas, spread over the Sonian forest, the Woluwe valley, the wooded and open areas in Uccle and several areas in the Molenbeek valley.
Still, the Brussels-Capital Region Government needs to provide the areas with management plans to guarantee coherent and effective protection – which Maron told Bruzz is an excellent opportunity to work on biodiversity in the Region.
Credit: Office of Brussels Environment Minister Alain Maron
"I have made the approval of the Natura 2000 management plans a priority for this legislature. By protecting our natural heritage, we combat the effects of climate change while ensuring a healthy and pleasant living environment for the inhabitants of Brussels," he said.
Additionally, the plans have the advantage of creating a clear framework for each area currently managed by dozens of different institutions.
During the preparation of the plans, extensive consultation takes place before they are approved by the government so the various owners and actors – ranging from federal and community administrations to public social services, church factories and private individuals – agree on the relevant measures to achieve the conservation objectives for the area.
There are now 'Natura 2000' management plans for the Sonian forest and the forest areas of the Molenbeek valley. “The remaining plans are currently being finalised and will be progressively approved by the government by April 2024 after consultation and a public inquiry."
