Biodiversity Loss

Europe’s landscape is characterised by a particularly rich diversity of habitats. Pristine river beds, steep coasts, small terraced vineyards, wildflower meadows and vast natural forests define the character of Europe’s natural heritage. Many of these habitats are the result of traditional practices of landuse, which have evolved over time to best adjust to the natural environment. Nature and landscapes provide the basis for people’s livelihoods and their home.

In recent decades, human activities as well as the use of nature and landscapes have changed considerably. Biodiversity Status has deteriorated more dramatically in the last 50 years than in the whole history of mankind. Due to human activities, species are dying out 1,000 times faster than they would under natural circumstances. 10-30% of mammals, birds and amphibians are now globally endangered. From 1970 to 2003, reductions in the populations of 1,300 monitored species, averaged at 30%. These losses diminish the productivity of nature and thereby threaten long-term human wellbeing.