About sea ports and Natura 2000
An overview of how the Natura 2000 network relates to sea ports
Sea ports form the backbone of growing global trade and development. Increasing sea traffic and ever larger cargo ships require their extension and deeper shipping channels. However, most European sea ports are located near Natura 2000 sites or host European protected species, which would be impaired by port development activities. Common problems include:
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the appearance of temporary nature at idle port sites meant for future development
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port extension plans (e.g. new terminal) that affect local protected nature
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sediment management (maintenance as well as development dredging).
It is essential, to achieve a balance between the economic needs of European ports and the protection of Natura 2000. Such a balance can be struck on the basis of stakeholder cooperation and best practice exchange.
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