Econnect: Protecting the Alps

The Alps are one of the most intensively exploited mountain ranges and one of Europe’s largest biodiversity pools. All Alpine States share the responsibility to preserve this exceptional biodiversity. Animals and plants need to migrate – even more in times of climate change – between habitats. They cannot halt at state borders or remain in Protected Areas. It is therefore essential to maintain, improve and create ecological networks across the entire Alpine region and to surrounding lowlands and mountain ranges.

Only a transnational approach in compliance with the Alpine Convention will lead to satisfying results for both nature conservation and related spatial aspects.

The project ECONNECT aims at the enhancement of ecological connectivity in the Alpine space. Protection of biodiversity and natural heritage requires an integrated approach which beyond protected areas considers high biodiversity areas and corridors as linking elements of an Alpine ecological network. International umbrella organisations linked to the Alpine Convention, scientific institutions and local implementation partners have joined forces to demonstrate needs and options for action and develop innovative instruments for ecological connectivity.

Dates & Venue: 4-5 November 2008, University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna (Austria)
Find out more: www.econnectproject.eu