New guidelines for sustainable tourism in Natura 2000 sites

On 14 July 2026, the European Commission published new guidelines describing how the European network of protected areas, Natura 2000, can act as a powerful driver of sustainable tourism while simultaneously protecting the habitats and species it was designed to safeguard.

Natura 2000 brings together more than 27,000 sites across Member States. The network covers nearly a fifth of the EU's land area and over 10% of its marine territory. It allows economic activities, including tourism, provided they do not compromise conservation objectives.

Tourism accounts for a significant share of the EU economy, contributing 7.1% to gross value added (around €807 billion in 2024) and supporting more than 20 million jobs. Within Natura 2000 sites, visitor activity generates between €50 billion and €85 billion annually and supports up to 2 million jobs, particularly in rural, coastal, and mountainous regions.

The new guidelines respond to what is known as the "conservation paradox": well-managed protected areas attract more visitors, which in turn can increase pressure on the very species and habitats that make them attractive. Poorly managed visitor flows can quickly lead to habitat degradation, species disturbance, pollution, and resource depletion. To address this, the Commission proposes four steps: identify pressures, threats, and potential benefits associated with tourism; assess the site's carrying capacity; strengthen communication and awareness; and implement appropriate management measures.

The guidelines also encourage proactive planning, including visitor management strategies, assessment of potential impacts, and investments in education and outreach – from information campaigns and guided tours to citizen science and digital tools.

They also emphasize the importance of stakeholder cooperation, bringing together competent authorities, tourism stakeholders, local communities, and non-governmental organizations.

Background

Established under the EU Birds and Habitats Directives, the Natura 2000 network is the largest coordinated network of protected areas in the world. Its goal is to ensure the long-term survival of Europe’s most valuable and threatened species and habitats.

The new guidelines support the implementation of EU biodiversity and sustainable tourism targets, including the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, helping Member States and stakeholders align nature protection with socioeconomic development.

The new guidelines are available here.

Source: European Commission

Photo: Natura 2000