Habitat connectivity: new Policy Insight published

Habitat connectivity helps sustain biodiversity in rural Europe and can also generate economic benefits. This Policy Insight aims to help raise awareness about funding that is available through the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) for landscape features. This will facilitate better habitat connectivity and thereby deliver environmental benefits that can also be economically advantageous.

Our latest Policy Insight provides a quick read and informative overview of the benefits that can be achieved for rural businesses and Europe’s environment by improving habitat connectivity. The publication spotlights how CAP Strategic Plans can help and this complements the work of our Thematic Group on Landscape features and biodiversity.

Connecting habitats is shown to support ecosystem services such as the provision of food, fuel and fibre, as well as, among others, further raw materials, climate regulation and carbon sequestration, disease and pest control, soil formation and fertility, flood protection, nutrient and water cycling. Keeping habitats well-connected can also help protect the green credentials of rural businesses and can boost company reputations, cultivating popular and productive relationships and engagement with consumers, clients, local communities and decision-makers. Read the full Policy Insight for further details.