Summary

Natura 2000 sites cover 29% of the territory of Andalusia. The project aimed to build connections between citizens and the protected areas, with a special focus on the population living within these areas, through voluntary actions. It was based on the principal that only through understanding the value of nature can people assume a sense of direct and personal responsibility for the conservation of sites.

The project supported the development of local participatory activities in sites within the Natura 2000 network. During 2016 and 2017, aware-raising activities were carried out by environmental associations with volunteers who live close to Natura 2000 sites.

Results

A total of 2 213 people participated in 312 activities carried out in 18 protected areas. This translates to a total of 21 412 volunteering hours.

Participants have learnt about the participating Natura 2000 sites and acquired specific knowledge of environmental protection actions.