25 September 2012: During the “Three for the Tree – Investing in Natura 2000 for Future Prosperity and Well-Being,” event organized by WWF, IUCN and the European Environmental Bureau (EEB), European Commissioner for the Environment Janez Potočnik celebrated the 20th anniversary of the EU Habitats Directive and Natura 2000 network.

Potočnik said the Habitat Directive was crucial in conserving natural habitats and species, increasing the capacity for action to prevent biodiversity loss by generating the necessary knowledge to adopt policy solutions.

He noted the success of the LIFE programme and underscored the expansion of the Natura 2000 network to over 26000 sites. Emphasizing the benefits of the network, he called for “strategic and consistent funding of Natura 2000” and ensuring the inclusion of biodiversity considerations in investment decisions by policy makers in agriculture, land-use, forestry, energy and transport.

In conclusion, Potočnik lauded the “Three for Tree” initiative by IUCN, WWF and the EEB, which aims to demonstrate how 3 euro cents per EU Citizen per day can help ensure long-term sustainability. [EU Press Release]