91997E2775

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2775/97 by Marjo Matikainen-Kallström (PPE) to the Commission (1 September 1997)

Subject: Natura 2000 and economic influences

The Natura 2000 conservation network, to be established in accordance with the habitats Directive, is causing conflict among different interest groups in the Member States.

Can prospecting, for example, be prohibited in a Natura conservation area?

Who can give permission for a Natura area to be exploited for, say, economic reasons? Does the Commission have the right to intervene in areas designated by Member States?

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission (22 September 1997)

The Natura 2000 network is implemented as required by Council Directive 92/43/EEC ('Habitats' Directive) ((OJ L 206, 22.7.1992. )), Article 6 of which states that the Member States shall take measures to avoid deterioration of the natural habitats and species within the Natura 2000 areas.

No economic activity is either authorised or prohibited per se by the Directive. All plans or projects likely to affect a Natura 2000 area (such as mining prospecting) must be assessed by the Member State concerned (Article 6(3) and (4)).

If a Member State decides to authorise a project despite its negative impact on the conservation of a site it must inform the Commission of the compensatory measures adopted. If that site includes a natural habitat or protected species the Commission's opinion must be sought.