Despite Economic Pressures, Europeans Continue To Back Nature Protection, Survey Finds

Photo: Citizens across Europe continue to show strong support for biodiversity conservation, protected areas, and nature restoration initiatives, according to a new EU survey. Photo by Son Tung Tran

Europe Backs Biodiversity

A new EU Green Week survey shows overwhelming European support for biodiversity protection, protected areas, and Natura 2000, with citizens urging stronger implementation of restoration and conservation policies.

Published at the start of the EU Green Week a new survey shows continued support among Europeans for biodiversity and nature protection, despite economic and geopolitical challenges. Over 90% of all Europeans view protecting biodiversity and nature as essential for health, food security, clean water, climate resilience, as well as for long-term economic prosperity. There is also broad support for EU legislation and action to protect biodiversity in their country.

This survey was carried out as input for this year’s Green Week, which will explore how investment in nature and healthy ecosystems can strengthen Europe’s economy, security and resilience.

Highlights

• More than 90% of Europeans consider biodiversity protection essential.
• Biodiversity is linked to health, food security, and climate resilience.
• Strong public backing for EU environmental legislation.
• Pollution remains the top perceived threat to biodiversity.
• 96% support protected areas to prevent habitat destruction.
• 95% believe protected areas safeguard endangered species.
• 94% recognize environmental and economic benefits of conservation areas.
• Awareness of Natura 2000 has increased by 12 percentage points.
• Citizens call for stronger implementation of biodiversity policies.
• Survey launched at the beginning of EU Green Week.

This Eurobarometer also shows that EU citizens identify the biggest three threats to biodiversity as pollution of air, soil and water (94%); man-made disasters such as oil spills and industrial accidents (92%); and the conversion of land for agriculture or urban development (90%).

The results of this survey also highlight strong support for protected areas and Natura 2000. 96% of respondents said protected areas are critical to preventing destruction of natural habitats. 95% support their role in protecting endangered species. 94% of respondents highlight the benefits of protected areas for clean air, water, and sustainable economies. A growing number of Europeans (42%, +12 percentage points) are aware of the EU-wide Natura 2000, set up to ensure the protection and conservation of Europe’s most valuable biodiversity.

This survey highlights that citizens expect biodiversity policies to be well implemented, focused on restoration, that biodiversity is integrated in planning decisions and robust safeguards are maintained for the protected areas.