suojelustatukset

Suojelustatukset, often translated as "protection statuses," are designations given to species, habitats, or areas to indicate their level of conservation concern and the legal measures in place for their protection. These statuses are typically determined by national or international bodies based on scientific assessments of population size, distribution, threats, and ecological importance.

In Finland, a key system for evaluating species protection is the Red List, which categorizes species according to their risk of extinction. Categories range from "least concern" to "critically endangered," with intermediate levels like "vulnerable" and "endangered." Species listed as threatened often receive specific legal protection under national legislation, such as the Nature Conservation Act, which may prohibit their harming, capture, or disturbance, and protect their habitats.

Internationally, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species is a widely recognized system for assessing the conservation status of species globally. The IUCN categories are similar to national systems and inform conservation efforts worldwide. Beyond species, protection statuses can also apply to habitats and entire natural areas. For example, Natura 2000 sites in the European Union are designated areas that protect valuable natural and semi-natural habitats and species of community interest. These designations often come with specific management plans and restrictions to ensure the long-term survival of the designated features. The overarching goal of these protection statuses is to guide conservation actions and prevent biodiversity loss.