Habitatdirektivet

The Habitatsdirektivet (Habitats Directive) is Directive 92/43/EEC of the Council of the European Union, adopted 21 May 1992, and entered into force on 1 June 1994. It aims to conserve natural habitats and wild flora and fauna within the EU and to maintain or restore their favorable conservation status.

The directive requires member states to designate Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) for habitat types listed in Annex I and for species listed in Annex II. Together with the Birds Directive, SACs form the Natura 2000 network. Member states must ensure appropriate conservation measures and sustainable land and water use within these sites and align sectoral policies to support habitat protection.

It imposes restrictions on deterioration and disturbance of habitats and species and requires environmental assessments for plans and projects likely to have significant effects on SACs (Article 6). If adverse effects are likely, authorities seek alternatives or apply mitigation; derogations are possible only for imperative reasons of overriding public interest, with no feasible alternatives and with compensatory measures to preserve overall ecosystem value.

Member states must monitor and report on conservation status, implement necessary management measures, and use best available scientific knowledge. The directive fosters cooperation and coordination at national and EU levels and integrates with other environmental policies to reduce risks from development, pollution, and land-use change.

In the EU, the Habitats Directive is a cornerstone of the Natura 2000 network, complementing the Birds Directive to protect Europe’s most valuable habitats and species, through a framework of designations, management requirements, and assessment obligations that shape planning and development across member states.