Guidance Nature policy

Index section Nature policy

• Subsection Designation and acquisition of nature areas
• Subsection Agrarian nature management
• Subsection Species Policy
• Subsection Policy on "green space"
• Subsection Policy on wetlands and aquatic ecosystems
• Subsection International nature policy programme

Nature areas

An important part of Dutch nature policy focuses on creating the National Ecological Network (Ecologische Hoofdstructuur, EHS), a continuous network of high-quality nature areas. This involves acquiring land, redeveloping it, transferring it to management organisations, and ensuring that it is protected. Special Areas of Conservation have also been designated as required by the European Birds and Habitats Directives.

Green space

Dutch nature policy also aims to allow nature to develop outside specific nature areas, in "green space". This involves promoting agrarian nature management, both within and outside the confines of the EHS. Policy also focuses on protection of the landscape. There is also an incentives policy for green areas near towns and cities.

Wetlands and aquatic ecosystems

The policy for areas of water and the land adjacent to them is intended to coordinate nature development with water management, for example increasing the amount of space for rivers so as to reduce the risk of flooding.

Species policy

Species policy is intended to supplement policy on protecting and improving nature areas. Certain species are protected under the European Birds and Habitats Directives.

International policy

The Netherlands supports activities to protect nature in other countries.