Guidelines on climate change and Natura 2000 : dealing with the impact of climate change, on the management of the Natura 2000 network of areas of high biodiversity value

These guidelines are primarily aimed at Natura 2000 site managers and policy makers. The purpose is to underline benefits from Natura 2000 sites in mitigating the impacts of climate change, reducing vulnerability and increasing resilience, and how adaptation of management for species and habitats protected by Natura 2000 can be used to tackle the effects of climate change. In focusing on what needs to be done, the guidelines identify opportunities for sensible adaptive planning. Often, this will involve integrated action between environmental and other sectors in order to realise multiple, and multiplier, benefits for nature and society. Looking to achieve better knowledge, implementation of the types of actions described in the guidelines will generate new evidence and build experience. Developing practical know-how is essential to increase the effectiveness of responses to climate change, assisting the review and refinement of practical ways to address climate change in future.