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BAP 2010 Community report

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Objective1 To safeguard the EU's most important habitats and species
Biodiversity loss of most important habitats and species halted by 2010, these habitats and species showing substantial recovery by 2013
Target: A1.1 Natura 2000 network established, safeguarded, designated and under effective conservation management by 2010, 2012 in marine.
Action: A1.1.1 Accelerate efforts to finalise the Natura 2000 network including: complete terrestrial network of Special Protection Areas (SPA) [by 2006, 2008 for marine]; adopt lists of Sites of Community Importance (SCI) [by 2006, 2008 for marine]; designate Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and establish management priorities and necessary conservation measures for SACs [by 2010, 2012 for marine]; establish similar management and conservation measures for SPAs [by 2010, 2012 for marine].
Action: A1.1.2 Ensure adequate financing provided to Natura 2000 implementation from Community sources (notably Rural Development funds, Cohesion and Structural Funds, Pre- Accession Instrument, Life-III, Life+) and MS sources, accessible to those who manage Natura 2000 sites, with focus on optimising longterm conservation benefits as well as priority awareness raising and networking initiatives [2006 onwards
Action: A1.1.3 Transpose fully [by 2006] Articles 6(2), 6(3) and 6(4) of the Habitats Directive into national legislation and planning policies and ensure subsequent timely implementation; where appropriate (i.e. where development proposals cannot avoid damage to Natura 2000 sites, but proceed for reasons of overriding public interest) ensure special effort for adequate design and implementation of compensatory measures [2006 onwards].
Action: A1.1.4 Strengthen effectiveness of Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in informing decision-making (inter alia: take stock of effectiveness, produce guidance, tighten legal requirements as appropriate) so as to prevent, minimise and mitigate damages to Natura 2000 sites [2006 onwards]. (cf. Actions A4.1.4, A4.1.6 and A4.6.1 to A4.6.4)
Action: A1.1.5 Ensure full and timely application of the Environmental Liability Directive (ELD) as it applies to protected species and natural habitats (as defined under the directive), including preventive measures and remedial actions, as appropriate [2006 onwards].
Target: A1.2 Sufficiency, coherence, connectivity and resilience of the protected areas network in the EU substantially enhanced by 2010 and further enhanced by 2013 (cf. objective 9, target 9.4).
Action: A1.2.1 Carry out [in 2008, following next reports] scientific review of habitat types listed in annexes of nature directives, informed by 'shadow lists' of priority habitats; add to annexes any missing habitat types of Community interest, and ensure all habitat types of Community interest are sufficiently represented in the Natura 2000 network [by 2010].
Action: A1.2.2 Accelerate efforts to place other designated protected areas (non-Natura 2000) of national, regional and local biodiversity importance under effective conservation management [by 2010, 2012 in marine].
Action: A1.2.3 Assess [by 2008] and substantially strengthen [by 2010] coherence, connectivity and resilience of the protected areas network (Natura 2000 and non- Natura protected areas) by applying, as appropriate, tools which may include flyways, buffer zones, corridors and stepping stones (including as appropriate to neighbouring and other third countries), as well as actions in support of biodiversity in the wider environment (see also actions under objectives 2, 3 and 9).
Target: A1.3 No priority species in worsening conservation status by 2010; the majority of priority species in or moving towards favourable conservation status by 2013
Action: A1.3.1 Implement [2006 onwards], at EC or MS level as appropriate, existing species action or management plans for species under threat and review and update as necessary; elaborate [2006 onwards] and implement [2007 onwards] additional species action or management plans for a wider range of species under threat - including birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, freshwater fish, invertebrates and plants; ensure monitoring of implementation and effectiveness of plans.
Action: A1.3.2 Carry out [in 2008, following next reports] scientific review of species listed in annexes of nature directives, informed by EU 'shadow lists' for major taxa and other relevant assessments of species status; add to annexes any missing species of Community interest, and ensure where appropriate that all species of Community interest are sufficiently represented in the Natura 2000 network [by 2010].
Action: A1.3.3 Identify and fill critical gaps in EU ex-situ (zoo, botanic gardens, etc.) conservation programmes for wild species, in line with best practice, with appropriate cofinancing from EC and MS [2006 onwards].
Target: A1.4 All above targets applied for Acceding Countries from date of accession.
Action: A1.4.1 Expand all above actions to Romania and Bulgaria (Acceding Countries) and to any future Acceding Countries in a timely manner, i.e. to provide for full implementation of environmental acquis, and provide lists of Natura 2000 sites [by date of accession].
Target: A1.5 For those EU Outermost Regions not covered by the nature directives, valued biodiversity sites and species not in worsening conservation status by 2010; majority of valued sites and species moving towards favourable conservation status by 2013.
Action: A1.5.1 Apply nature directivestype approach for valued sites and species in those EU Outermost Regions not covered by nature directives [2006 onwards].
Objective2 To conserve and restore biodiversity and ecosystem services in the wider EU countryside
In wider countryside (terrestrial, freshwater, brackish water outside Natura 2000 network), biodiversity loss halted by 2010 and showing substantial recovery by 2013.
Target: A2.1 Member States have optimised use of opportunities under agricultural, rural development and forest policy to benefit biodiversity 2007-2013.
Action: A2.1.1 Allocate, at MS initiative, within each national/regional Rural Development (RD) Programme, adequate Community and MS co-financing to measures available under all three axes of the RD Regulation which are directly or indirectly supportive of nature and biodiversity [2006/07 and any subsequent revisions]. (cf. Action B.1.1.2)
Action: A2.1.10 Consider, if appropriate, a possible review of crosscompliance requirements related to the preservation of biodiversity in the 2007 review of the cross-compliance system.
Action: A2.1.11 Strengthen measures to ensure conservation, and availability for use, of genetic diversity of crop varieties, livestock breeds and races, and of commercial tree species in the EU, and promote in particular their in situ conservation [2006 onwards].
Action: A2.1.12 Exploit opportunities under the CAP [2007-2013] to implement all above actions in the Outermost Regions.
Action: A2.1.13 Ensure that the forthcoming EU Forest Action Plan [due 2006] addresses forest biodiversity among the priorities, in line with the EU Forest Strategy and the 6th Environment Action Programme.
Action: A2.1.14 Implement Vienna Ministerial Conference resolution on forest biodiversity (2003) through forest policies of MS and EU Forest Action Plan with particular reference to the CBD Expanded Programme of Work on Forest Biological Diversity [2006 onwards].
Action: A2.1.15 Assess potential impact on biodiversity of plans, programmes and projects for afforestation (or, should the case arise, deforestation); adjust accordingly in order to ensure no overall long-term negative impact on biodiversity [2006 onwards].
Action: A2.1.2 Apply Rural Development (RD) measures in the next programming period [2007- 2013] to optimise long-term benefits for biodiversity - in particular for Natura 2000 areas and for other 'high nature value' farm and forest areas.
Action: A2.1.3 Define criteria and identify [2006-07] highnature- value farmland and forest areas (including the Natura 2000 network) threatened with loss of biodiversity (with particular attention to extensive farming and forest/woodland systems at risk of intensification or abandonment, or already abandoned), and design and implement measures to maintain and/or restore conservation status [2007 onwards].
Action: A2.1.4 Ensure effective implementation of crosscompliance (which provides a baseline for most of the measures of Axis 2 of the Rural Development Regulation) in ways that benefit biodiversity [2007- 2013].
Action: A2.1.5 Ensure that MS Rural Development Plans (RDPs) comply with environmental legislation and in particular with the nature directives so as to prevent and minimise any potential damages to biodiversity [2007-2013].
Action: A2.1.6 Broaden extension services, farm advisory systems and training actions to farmers, landowners and farm workers to strengthen biodiversity-related implementation in the next rural development programming [2007 onwards], including support from the LEADER axis.
Action: A2.1.7 Ensure future 'less favoured area' (LFA) regime [from 2010] under Axis 2 enhances its contribution to biodiversity and to 'high nature value' farm and forest areas.
Action: A2.1.8 Implement the common monitoring and evaluation framework and Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive requirements where applicable for rural development programmes, including the definition of indicators in a way that impact of measures on biodiversity is assessed [2006 onwards].
Action: A2.1.9 Encourage that implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy first pillar benefits biodiversity, notably through mandatory cross compliance, decoupling (single farm payments) and by encouraging take-up of modulation by the Member States MS Action: Use the instruments of the CAP first pillar (decoupling, cross-compliance) to promote biodiversity actions and increase modulation possibilities and redirection of first pillar resources to biodiversity actions through Rural Development.
Action: A.2.1.9 Encourage that implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy first pillar benefits biodiversity, notably through mandatory crosscompliance, decoupling (single farm payments) and by encouraging takeup of modulation by the Member States.
Target: A2.2 Risks to soil biodiversity in EU substantially reduced by 2013.
Action: A2.2.1 Identify geographical risk areas for factors affecting soil biodiversity (soil sealing, loss of organic matter, soil erosion, etc.) [by 2009].
Action: A2.2.2 Minimise soil sealing, sustain soil organic matter and prevent soil erosion through timely implementation of key measures identified in the forthcoming Thematic Strategy for Soil Protection [2010 onwards].
Target: A2.3 Substantial progress made towards 'good ecological status' of freshwaters by 2010 and further substantial progress made by 2013.
Action: A2.3.1 Ensure implementation of operational monitoring programmes [by 2006] and publication of River Basin Management Plans and establishment of River Basin District Programmes of Measures [by 2009] and that these Plans and Programmes of Measures are fully operational [by 2012], in line with provisions of the Water Framework Directive.
Target: A2.4 Principal pollutant pressures on terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity substantially reduced by 2010, and again by 2013.
Action: A2.4.1 Significantly reduce point source pollutant pressures on terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems through strengthening implementation of relevant Directives, notably on Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control, Large Combustion Plants, Waste Incineration, Urban Waste Water Treatment (cf. action 3.2.1) [2006 onwards].
Action: A2.4.2 Significantly reduce airborne eutrophying and acidifying pollution of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems in line with Thematic Strategy on Air Pollution [2006 onwards]; revise National Emission Ceilings Directive [by 2007]. (cf. action 3.2.2)
Action: A2.4.3 Significantly reduce pollution of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems from agricultural sources (notably pesticides, nitrates) through measures in line with Thematic Strategy on the Sustainable Use of Pesticides, pesticides and biocides legislation, Nitrates Directive [2006 onwards]. (cf. action 3.2.3)
Action: A2.4.4 Significantly reduce current exposure, and limit future exposure, of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems to toxic chemicals through measures in line with EU chemicals legislation including REACH [2006 onwards]. (cf. action 3.2.4)
Target: A2.5 Flood risk management plans in place and designed in such a way as to prevent and minimise biodiversity loss and optimise biodiversity gains, by 2015.
Action: A2.5.1 As part of the preliminary flood risk assessment for each river basin, assess the risks and benefits of flooding for biodiversity [within 3 years of adoption of Directive].
Action: A2.5.2 Ensure Flood risk management plans for each river basin optimise benefits for biodiversity through, in particular, allowing necessary freshwater input to wetland and floodplain habitats, and creating where possible and appropriate additional wetland and floodplain habitats which enhance capacity for flood water retention [by 2015].
Objective3 To conserve and restore biodiversity and ecosystem services in the wider EU marine environment
In wider marine environment (outside Natura 2000 network), biodiversity loss halted by 2010 and showing substantial recovery by 2013
Target: A3.1 Substantial progress achieved by 2010 and again by 2013 towards 'good environmental status' of the marine environment.
Action: A3.1.1 Make initial assessments, determine 'good environmental status', and establish environmental targets for each Marine Region in line within the timetable specified in the proposed Marine Strategy Directive [2006 onwards].
Action: A3.1.2 Develop programmes of measures designed to achieve good environmental status in each Marine Region [by 2016 at latest, earlier where possible].
Action: A3.1.3 Ensure key biodiversity and ecosystem provisions of the Thematic Strategy for the Marine Environment are assured in the Maritime Policy for the Union and any consequent policy.
Action: A3.1.4 Ensure timely implementation of the Water Framework Directive as it applies to coastal areas [2006 onwards].
Action: A3.1.5 Ensure timely implementation and review of the EU Integrated Coastal Zone Management Recommendation [2006 onwards].
Target: A3.2 Principal pollutant pressures on marine biodiversity substantially reduced by 2010, and again by 2013.
Action: A3.2.1 Significantly reduce point source pollutant pressures on marine ecosystems through strengthening implementation of relevant Directives, notably on Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control, Large Combustion Plants, Waste Incineration, Urban Waste Water Treatment [2006 onwards] (cf. action 2.3.1)
Action: A3.2.2 Significantly reduce airborne eutrophicating and acidifying pollution of marine ecosystems in line with Thematic Strategy on Air Quality [2006 onwards]; revise National Emissions Ceiling Directive [by 2007]. (cf. action 2.3.2)
Action: A3.2.3 Significantly reduce pollution of marine ecosystems from agricultural sources (pesticides, nitrates) through measures in line with Thematic Strategy on the Sustainable Use of Pesticides, pesticides and biocides legislation, Nitrates Directive [2006 onwards]. (cf. action 2.3.3)
Action: A3.2.4 Significantly reduce current exposure, and limit future exposure, of marine ecosystems to toxic chemicals through measures in line with EU chemicals legislation [2006 onwards]. (cf. action 2.3.4)
Target: A3.3 Ecosystem approach to the protection of the seas in place and implying fisheries management measures no later than 2016.
Action: A3.3.1 Introduce the fisheries management measures required in the Regional Marine Strategies adopted by Member States in line with the requirements of the Marine Strategy Directive [by 2017].
Target: A3.4 Substantially enhanced funding provided to environmentally-friendly fisheries management from 2007 onwards.
Action: A3.4.1 Apply new European Fisheries Fund and Member State funds for actions beneficial to marine biodiversity [2007 onwards]. (cf. Action B1.1.3)
Target: A3.5 Stock levels maintained or restored to levels that can produce maximum sustainable yield, where possible no later than 2015.
Action: A3.5.1 Prepare plan of action to attain maximum sustainable yield, prepare and implement multiannual plans for stocks outside safe biological limits [2006 onwards]
Action: A3.5.2 Develop, adopt and implement restoration programmes for diadromous species (e.g. trout, salmon, sturgeon). [2006 onwards]
Action: A3.5.3 Adjust fishing capacity to improve balance between fishing capacity and available fish stocks. [2006 onwards]
Action: A3.5.4 Adopt and implement provisions under CFP for the wider establishment of no-take zones.
Action: A3.5.5 Take concerted EU action to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. [2006 onwards]
Target: A3.6 Impact of fisheries on non-target species and habitats progressively and substantially reduced from 2006 onwards.
Action: A3.6.1 Implement technical measures to help ensure favourable conservation status of marine species and habitats which are not commercially exploited, aimed at the reduction of unwanted by-catch and of damage to the benthos. [2006 onwards]
Action: A3.6.2 Adopt Community Plan of Action for the conservation of sharks and Community Plan of Action for reducing seabird by-catch and implement progressively thereafter.
Action: A3.6.3 Identify, define, adopt and enforce fisheries measures required for Natura 2000 sites in the marine environment. [by date of designation]
Action: A3.6.4 Ensure adequate treatment of biodiversity concerns in all cases where environmental impact assessment or strategic environmental assessment is required in relation to fisheries or aquaculture, and ensure authorisation process and subsequent implementation take due account of EIA and SEA findings in order to prevent negative impacts on biodiversity or, where prevention is not possible, minimise, mitigate and/or compensate for these negative impacts [2006 onwards].
Target: A3.7 Substantially improved information and reporting on environmental integration of the Common Fisheries Policy from 2008 onwards.
Action: A3.7.1 Make periodic assessments [2006 onwards] of the progress of the Common Fisheries Policy in incorporating environmental protection requirements (with particular reference to biodiversity).
Objective4 To reinforce compatibility of regional and territorial development with biodiversity in the EU
Regional and territorial development benefiting biodiversity, and negative impacts on biodiversity prevented and minimised or, where unavoidable, adequately compensated for, from 2006 onwards.
Target: A4.1 Cohesion and structural funds contributing to sustainable development and making (directly or indirectly) a positive contribution to biodiversity, and negative impacts on biodiversity prevented or minimised or, where unavoidable, adequately compensated fo
Action: A4.1.1 Allocate, at MS initiative, cohesion and structural funds for projects directly or indirectly benefiting biodiversity in appropriate operational programmes [2006 onwards]. (cf. Action B1.1.4)
Action: A4.1.2 ESF contributing to biodiversity objectives through awareness-raising, capacity building, employment of the young, long-term jobless and elderly, etc. [2007 onwards] (cf. Action B1.1.5)
Action: A4.1.3 Ensure National Strategic Reference Frameworks (NRSFs) and Operational Programmes 2007-2013 fully respect environmental acquis [2006 onwards]
Action: A4.1.4 Ensure strategic environmental assessment (SEA) of Operational Programmes [2006 onwards] gives adequate treatment to biodiversity concerns and that the final programmes take full account of the SEA findings in order to prevent, minimise and mitigate impacts on biodiversity and provide where possible benefits to biodiversity. (cf. Action A1.1.4)
Action: A4.1.5 Ensure environmental impact assessment (EIA) of projects cofinanced by Cohesion Fund and European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), where such EIA is required, gives adequate treatment to biodiversity concerns and that final projects take full account of EIA findings in order to prevent, minimise and mitigate impacts on biodiversity and provide where possible benefits to biodiversity [2006 onwards]. (cf. Action A1.1.4)
Action: A4.1.6 Ensure full participation of civil society in development of NSRF and national Operational Programmes and in SEA/EIA and ensure biodiversity interests fully represented [2006 onwards].
Target: A4.2 Negative impacts of territorial plans (within each MS) on biodiversity prevented or minimised, and positive benefits optimised, from 2006 onwards.
Action: A4.2.1 Ensure that all those territorial plans subject to strategic environmental assessment (SEA) (where deemed applicable by Member States under the SEA Directive) do not cause significant negative impacts on biodiversity (direct, indirect, cumulative) [2006 onwards].
Action: A4.2.2 Implement policies and measures in line with Thematic Strategy for Urban Environment to prevent urban sprawl [2006 onwards].
Target: A4.3 Ecological coherence and functioning strengthened through spatial planning from 2006 onwards.
Action: A4.3.1 Develop and implement spatial and programmatic plans that support the coherence of the Natura 2000 network (in line with the requirements of the nature directives to ensure such coherence) and maintain and/or restore the ecological quality of wider landscape [2006 onwards] (cf. Action B2.5.1)
Target: A4.4 Significant increase in proportion of tourism which is ecologically sustainable by 2010 and again by 2013.
Action: A4.4.1 CBD Guidelines on Sustainable Tourism promoted, adopted and implemented as appropriate by key stakeholders [2006 onwards].
Target: A4.5 All above outcomes achieved also in Outermost Regions.
Action: A4.5.1 All above actions applied, as appropriate, in Outermost Regions (French Guyana, Guadeloupe, Reunion, Martinique, Canaries, Azores, Madeira) [2006 onwards].
Target: A4.6 All Strategic Environmental Assessments and Environmental Impact Assessments have taken full account of biodiversity concerns (2006 onwards).
Action: A4.6.1 Ensure effective treatment of biodiversity in all Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of programmes and plans, where such SEA is required, including by promotion of best practice through the development of guidelines, recognition of good performance) - and ensure that full account is taken of the findings of the assessment (in terms of impacts on biodiversity) in the final programmes or plans [2006 onwards]. (cf. Action A1.1.4)
Action: A4.6.2 Ensure effective treatment of biodiversity in all Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of projects, where such EIA is required, including by promotion of best practice through the development of guidelines, recognition of good performance) - and ensure that full account is taken of the findings of the assessment (in terms of impacts on biodiversity) in the authorisation procedure [2006 onwards]. (cf. Action A1.1.4)
Action: A4.6.3 Ensure all new Trans- European Networks provide for environmental assessment and take full account of biodiversity impacts in the design and authorisation process in the framework of the existing EU legislation [2006 onwards]. (cf. Action A1.1.4)
Action: A4.6.4 Take stock of effectiveness of EIA and SEA in preventing and minimising negative impacts and improving positive impacts of developments on biodiversity and consider necessary measures to improve EIA and SEA performance in this respect [by 2009]. (cf. Action A1.1.4)
Objective5 To substantially reduce the impact on EU biodiversity of invasive alien species (IAS) & alien genotypes
Negative impacts on EU biodiversity of IAS and alien genotypes prevented or minimised from 2010 onwards.
Target: A5.1 Impact of IAS on biodiversity in the EU substantially reduced by 2010 and again by 2013.
Action: A5.1.1 Assess, at EU level, gaps in the current legal, policy and economic framework to prevent, control and eradicate IAS and mitigate their impacts on biodiversity and develop a community strategy to address IAS including, where necessary and appropriate, measures to fill gaps [by 2007].
Action: A5.1.2 Encourage Member States to develop national strategies on invasive alien species [by 2007] and to implement them fully [by 2010].
Action: A5.1.3 Encourage ratification of the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ship's Ballast Water and Sediments under the International Maritime Organisation [2006 onwards].
Action: A5.1.4 Establish early warning system for the prompt exchange of information between neighbouring countries on the emergence of IAS and cooperation on control measures across national boundaries [by 2008].
Target: A5.2 Impact of alien genotypes on biodiversity in the EU significantly reduced by 2010 and again by 2013.
Action: A5.2.1 Fully apply the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to ensure an adequate level of protection of biodiversity (and human health) in the field of the safe handling, use and transfer of genetically modified organisms [2006 onwards].
Action: A5.2.2 Ensure protection of biodiversity as part of measures to protect human health and environment in relation to the deliberate release into the environment of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) [2006 onwards].
Objective6 To substantially strengthen effectiveness of international governance for biodiversity and ecosystem services
Target: A6.1 International governance for biodiversity substantially more effective in delivering positive biodiversity outcomes by 2010.
Action: A6.1.1 Press for effective worldwide implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity, decisions of the Conference of the Parties including thematic and cross-cutting programmes of work, and other related international and regional biodiversity agreements (e.g. Bonn, Berne, AEWA, Ramsar, UN Fish Stocks Agreement) and promote greater synergies between these [2006 onwards].
Action: A6.1.2 Enhance integration of biodiversity into global processes with important impacts on biodiversity such as sustainable development and the Millennium Development Goals, trade and climate change [2006 onwards].
Action: A6.1.3 Promote improved oceans governance for conservation and recovery of marine biodiversity, ecosystem services and integration of key sectors, including in relation to areas beyond national jurisdiction; make progress towards mechanisms for establishment of Marine Protected Areas in the high seas, including by supporting the adoption of an Implementing Agreement to the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea, with the scientific support from the CBD, notably in developing criteria for identifying the areas to be protected. [2006 onwards]
Objective7 To substantially strengthen support for biodiversity and ecosystem services in EU external assistance
Target: A7.1 Financial resources flowing annually to projects directly benefiting biodiversity has substantially increased in real terms (for period 2006-2010 compared with period 2000-2005; and again for period 2011-2013).
Action: A7.1.1 Ensure adequate community funds earmarked for biodiversity in development cooperation (in line with European Consensus on Development Cooperation) in EC Thematic Programme for Environment and Natural Resources and ensure the use of these funds is targeted at biodiversity priorities [2007- 2013]; decide [in 2006] on an adequately funded EC Thematic Programme for Environment and Natural Resources (ENRTP) in the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI) and the Development Cooperation and Economic Cooperation Instrument (DCECI) and ensure that biodiversity priorities receive an appropriate share of the total ENRTP and DCECI resources [2007-2013].
Action: A7.1.2 Allocate adequate resources in Country and Regional Strategy Programmes wherever biodiversity identified as a key issue in country/regional environmental profiles [2006 onwards].
Action: A7.1.3 Enhance MS funds earmarked for biodiversity (in line with European Consensus on Development Cooperation) in MS bilateral development cooperation programmes in support of implementation of the CBD, Millennium Development Goals and other programmes relevant for biodiversity in developing countries [2006 onwards].
Action: A7.1.4 Enhance the overall contribution of EU MS for biodiversity through a substantial 4th replenishment of the GEF based on the agreed policy priorities [2006/07].
Action: A7.1.5 Enhance funds for biodiversity related actions under the national and regional components of the Instrument for Pre- Accession (IPA) and the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI)
Action: A7.1.6 Enhance economic and development assistance funds available for biodiversity-related actions in the MS' Overseas Countries and Territories [2006 onwards].
Target: A7.2 EU 'mainstream' external development assistance delivering enhanced biodiversity and related livelihoods benefits, and negative impacts on biodiversity prevented or minimised, from 2006 onwards.
Action: A7.2.1 Prepare country and regional environmental profiles with specific attention to the maintenance of biodiversity and ecosystem services (in particular in relation to livelihood concerns), and take these needs fully into account in preparation of Country Strategy Papers (CSPs) and Regional Strategy Papers (RSPs) and in equivalent MS country and regional aid programming [2006 onwards].
Action: A7.2.2 Systematically carry out ex-ante strategic environmental assessment (SEA) of relevant strategies and programmes and environmental impact assessment (EIA) of relevant projects funded by EU in partner countries and ensure actions are identified and implemented to prevent and mitigate negative impacts on biodiversity in a timely manner [2006 onwards].
Action: A7.2.3 Substantially strengthen capacities in recipient countries and in Commission and MS cooperation programming for these purposes, including integrating implementation of the CBD into national development strategies including Poverty Reduction Strategies [2006 onwards].
Action: A7.2.4 Ensure that projects financed by EU under the Development Cooperation and Economic Cooperation Instrument (DCECI), European Development Fund (EDF), preaccession, neighbourhood and partnership instruments delivering enhanced biodiversity benefits, and negative impacts on biodiversity prevented or minimised [2006 onwards].
Action: A7.2.5 Ensure that projects financed by EU economic and development assistance do not cause significant negative impacts on biodiversity in the MS Overseas Countries and Territories [2006 onwards].
Objective8 To substantially reduce the impact of international trade on global biodiversity and ecosystem services
Target: A8.1 Impact on biodiversity of EU trade significantly reduced by 2010 and again by 2013.
Action: A8.1.1 Identify major impacts of trade on third countries’ and EU biodiversity and adopt measures to significantly reduce (in case of negative impacts) and/or enhance (in case of positive impacts) these impacts [by 2010]. This will in particular be done in the context of the Commission's trade-related Sustainability Impact Assessment (SIA) Programme, that covers a number of sectoral studies (e.g. agriculture, forests and forest products as well as fisheries), in the context of multilateral (WTO, ongoing negotiations on the Doha Development Agenda) and/or regional/bilateral free trade agreements (e.g. EPAs with ACP countries).
Action: A8.1.2 Foster links between the WTO agreements and biodiversityrelated international agreements, and ensure biodiversity taken into account as a Non-Trade Concern, in order to identify and put in place key measures to reduce the ecological impact of globalisation in line with the precautionary principle and with the commitment made in the context of the WTO's Doha Development Agenda to promote the objective of sustainable development (paragraph 6 of the Doha Declaration) and to enhance the mutual supportiveness of trade and environment (paragraph 31) [2006 onwards].
Action: A8.1.3 Promote full implementation of the CBD Bonn Guidelines on Access to Genetic Resources and Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits (ABS) arising out of their Utilisation, and other agreements relating to ABS such as the FAO International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture – and continue to contribute to negotiation of an international regime on ABS according to the mandate adopted at the 7th Conference of the Parties of the CBD [2006 onwards].
Action: A8.1.4 Maximise the proportion of EU consumption of wood products deriving from sustainable sources [by 2010].
Action: A8.1.5 In the context of action 8.1.1, identify EU non-wood imports driving deforestation in third countries (particularly in the context of traderelated SIAs, notably on agricultural products) and adopt and implement measures to prevent, minimise and/or mitigate this deforestation [by 2010].
Action: A8.1.6 Put in place bilateral agreements between EU and major timber exporting countries with aim to support forest law enforcement, governance and trade (FLEGT) [2006 onwards].
Action: A8.1.7 Ensure Fisheries Partnership Agreements compatible with maintenance and recovery of stocks at levels that can produce maximum sustainable yield, and with minimising impact on non-target species and habitats [2006 onwards].
Action: A8.1.8 Support capacity-building and implementation of CITES provisions to ensure that trade in CITES species is effectively regulated and controlled and not detrimental to the conservation of the species in range states [2006 onwards].
Action: A8.1.9 Apply principle of prior informed consent when commercially using traditional knowledge relating to biodiversity and encourage the equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of such knowledge [2006 onwards].
Objective9 To support biodiversity adaptation to climate change
Potential for damaging impacts, related to climate change, on EU biodiversity substantially reduced by 2013
Target: A9.1 8% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions achieved by 2010.
Action: A9.1.1 Commitments made under the Kyoto Protocol respected [2006 onwards].
Target: A9.2 Global annual mean surface temperature increase limited to not more than 2ºC above pre-industrial levels.
Action: A9.2.1 Further ambitious measures to limit temperature increase agreed in line with the long-term Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessments, and action against climate change post-2012 extended to all the polluting countries (with common but differentiated responsibilities) and sectors involved.
Target: A9.3 Climate change adaptation or mitigation measure from 2006 onwards delivering biodiversity benefits, and any negative impacts on biodiversity prevented or minimised, from 2006 onwards.
Action: A9.3.1 All climate change adaptation and mitigation measures assessed to prevent negative impacts or, where prevention not possible, to minimise, mitigate and/or compensate for negative impacts and, wherever possible, provide positive benefits to biodiversity [2006 onwards].
Action: A9.3.2 Ensure that implementation of EU Biomass Action Plan takes due account in assessments, where relevant, of impacts on biodiversity, in particularly on high-nature-value farmland and forests, in order to achieve ecological sustainability of biomass production [2006 onwards].
Target: A9.4 Resilience of EU biodiversity to climate change substantially strengthened by 2010.
Action: A9.4.1 Develop a comprehensive programme of priority actions to support biodiversity adaptation to climate change in the EU [by 2008].
Action: A9.4.2 Assess [by 2008], on the basis of available scientific evidence, and substantially strengthen [by 2010] coherence, connectivity and resilience of the protected areas network (Natura 2000 and non- Natura protected areas) in order to maintain favourable conservation status of species and habitats in the face of climate change by applying, as appropriate, tools which may include flyways, buffer zones, corridors and stepping stones (including as appropriate to neighbouring and third countries), as well as actions in support of biodiversity in the wider environment (cf. action 1.2.3).
Action: A9.4.3 Make a preliminary assessment of habitats and species in the EU most at risk from climate change [by 2007], detailed assessment and appropriate adaptation measures prepared [by 2009], commence implementation [by 2010].
Objective10 To sustainably strengthen the knowledge base for conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, in the EU and globally
Target: A10.1 Research findings on biodiversity and ecosystem services has substantially advanced our ability to ensure conservation and sustainable use by 2010 and again by 2013.
Action: A10.1.1 Subject to funding being found from existing financial resources, establish an EU mechanism for independent, authoritative research-based advice to inform implementation and further policy development.
Action: A10.1.2 Identify ways and means to strengthen independent scientific advice to global policy making, inter alia by actively contributing to CBD consideration of the 2007 evaluation of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, and the ongoing consultations on the need for improved International Mechanisms on Scientific Expertise on Biodiversity.
Action: A10.1.3 Enhance research on status, trends and distribution of all habitats and species of community interest and of additional habitats and species of policy relevance [2006 onwards].
Action: A10.1.4 Enhance research on most significant pressures on biodiversity, develop and test prevention and mitigation options [2006 onwards].
Action: A10.1.5 Develop and apply tools to measure, anticipate and improve effectiveness of most important policy instruments for conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity [2006 onwards].
Action: A10.1.6 Allocate adequate financial resources to European and national biodiversity research and to dissemination of its results, including under the Seventh Framework Programme [2006 onwards].
Action: A10.1.7 Establish effective and inclusive European Research Area for biodiversity and strengthen capacities (including infrastructures) in key disciplines, interdisciplinary and participatory science [2006 onwards].
Action: A10.1.8 Put institutional arrangements in place to ensure policy-relevant research done (e.g. in support of implementation of the nature directives, integration of biodiversity into sectoral policies) and research outcomes are reflected where appropriate in policy development [2006 onwards].
Action: A10.1.9 Establish and promote [2006 onwards] common data standards and quality assurance procedures to enable interoperability of key European and national biodiversity databases and inventories [by 2008].
Measure1 Ensuring adequate financing for biodiversity
Target: B1.1 Adequate funding provided for Natura 2000, biodiversity outside Natura 2000 in EU, biodiversity in external assistance and biodiversity research, inventory and monitoring 2007-2013.
Action: B1.1.1 Ensure adequate financing provided [2007- 2013] to Natura 2000 implementation through community (CAP Rural Development, Structural Funds, Life+) and MS cofinancing, accessible to those who manage Natura 2000 sites, with focus on optimising longterm conservation status and benefits as well as priority awareness raising and networking initiatives. (cf. Action A1.1.2)
Action: B1.1.2 Allocate, at MS initiative, within each national/regional Rural Development (RD) Programme, adequate Community and MS co-financing to measures available under all three axes of the RD Regulation which are directly or indirectly supportive of nature and biodiversity [2006/07 and any subsequent revisions].
Action: B1.1.3 Apply new European Fisheries Fund and Member State funds for actions beneficial to marine biodiversity [2007- 2013]. (cf. Action A3.4.1)
Action: B1.1.4 Allocate, at MS initiative, cohesion and structural funds for projects directly or indirectly providing biodiversity benefits in all MS operational programmes [2006 onwards]. (cf. Action A4.1.1)
Action: B1.1.5 ESF contributing to biodiversity objectives through awareness-raising, capacity building, employment of the young, long-term jobless and elderly, etc. [2007 onwards]. (cf. Action A4.1.2)
Action: B1.1.6 Ensure adequate financing of other biodiversity measures outside Natura 2000 in the EU through other Community cofinancing (e.g. Life+) and Member States’ financing [2007- 2013].
Action: B1.1.7 Increase in real terms international development assistance funds flowing annually to projects directly benefiting biodiversity [for period 2006-2010 compared with period 2000-2005; and again for period 2011- 2013]. (cf. Actions A7.1.1 to A7.1.6)
Action: B1.1.8 Allocate adequate financial resources to European and national biodiversity research and to dissemination of its results, including under the Seventh Framework Programme [2006 onwards]. (cf. Action A10.1.5)
Action: B1.1.9 Allocate adequate funds for supporting measures including promoting joinedup planning, development of partnerships, monitoring, awareness raising and institutional capacity-building for biodiversity [2007-2013].
Measure2 Strengthening EU decision making for biodiversity
Target: B2.1 EU vision on biodiversity and ecosystem services agreed and providing policy framework by 2010.
Action: B2.1.1 Launch, hold and conclude EU debate on this vision and policy framework [2007/08].
Action: B2.1.2 Strengthen understanding and communication of the values of natural capital and of ecosystem services, and the taking into account of these values in the policy framework, expand incentives for people to safeguard biodiversity [2006 onwards].
Target: B2.2 New policies benefit biodiversity and ecosystem services, and their negative impact on biodiversity and ecosystem services prevented or minimised, from 2006 onwards.
Action: B2.2.1 Integrate concerns for biodiversity and ecosystem services, given their economic important in terms of jobs and growth for some sectors such as tourism, into Lisbon National Reform Programmes and the development of policies and budgets under these NRPs [2006 onwards].
Action: B2.2.2 Screen all new legislative and policy proposals at EU and MS levels for potential significant impacts on biodiversity in general and on ecosystem goods and services in particular, and ensure effective treatment of biodiversity concerns in policy impact assessments, in particular to ensure the maintenance of ecosystem goods and services [2006 onwards].
Target: B2.3 Biodiversity needs have been better integrated, as necessary, into post-2013 Financial Perspectives and any mid-term review of FP 2007-2013.
Action: B2.3.1 Strengthen alignment of the biodiversity policy cycle with the broader EU policy and budgeting cycle to enable more effective integration [2006 onwards].
Target: B2.4 Complementarity of EC and MS biodiversity strategies and action plans substantially enhanced by 2010.
Action: B2.4.1 Re-align MS biodiversity strategies and action plans with this EU Action Plan [by 2007] and strengthen mechanisms for ongoing alignment of EC and MS biodiversity strategies and action plans [2007 onwards].
Action: B2.4.2 Strengthen the institutional arrangements in support of coherence and complementarity in the implementation of EC and MS biodiversity strategies and action plans and in particular of this Action Plan [2006 onwards].
Action: B2.4.3 Strengthen mechanisms for delivery from MS level to local level [2006 onwards].
Target: B2.5 Effective integration of Natura 2000, rural development, river basin management and other territorial plans and programmes in support of biodiversity achieved by 2010.
Action: B2.5.1 Strengthen proactive integration of available planning instruments including Natura 2000, river basin management planning, programmes of measures for soils, rural development plans - towards application of an ecosystems approach in the terrestrial and freshwater environment [2006 onwards]. (cf. Action A4.3.1)
Action: B2.5.2 Integrate biodiversity concerns into the evaluation, monitoring and reporting mechanisms of Community-funded programmes which have an impact on the conservation and recovery of biodiversity [2006 onwards].
Target: B2.6 Substantial improvement in compliance with environmental regulations by 2010 and again by 2013.
Action: B2.6.1 Reinforce efforts to ensure compliance, control and enforcement at national, regional and local levels [2006 onwards].
Measure3 Building partnerships for biodiversity
Target: B3.1 Key stakeholder groups actively engaged in conservation of biodiversity from 2006 in each MS.
Action: B3.1.1 Enhance communication, cooperation and concerted action between Commission, Member States, landowners, scientific and conservation communities in support of Natura 2000 (including implementation of 'El Teide' Declaration) [2006 onwards].
Action: B3.1.2 Develop farming and biodiversity, forestry and biodiversity partnerships, building on existing consultative processes under the Common Agricultural Policy and forest policy [2006 onwards].
Action: B3.1.3 Establish and adequately fund Regional Advisory Councils for fisheries, as provided for under the Common Fisheries Policy, and support their operations [2006 onwards].
Action: B3.1.4 Establish a Biodiversity and Climate Change Adaptation Task Force at EU level [2007] to advise on measures to support biodiversity adaptation to climate change and the prevention of damaging impacts of climate change adaptation and mitigation measures on biodiversity [2007 onwards].
Action: B3.1.5 Develop biodiversity and planning partnership [2007 onwards].
Action: B3.1.6 Develop a business and biodiversity partnership [2006 onwards].
Action: B3.1.7 Develop partnership between financing sector and biodiversity [2006 onwards].
Action: B3.1.8 Apply the CBD Akwe- Kwon Guidelines for projects affecting terrestrial lands of indigenous and local communities both within the EU MS and in Third countries [2006 onwards].
Measure4 Building public education, awareness and participation for biodiversity
Target: B4.1 10 million Europeans actively engaged in biodiversity conservation by 2010, 15 million by 2013.
Action: B4.1.1 Develop [2006/07] and implement [2007 onwards] a communications campaign in support of full implementation of this Action Plan.
Action: B4.1.2 Strengthen and implement IUCN Countdown 2010 initiative [2006 onwards].
Action: B4.1.3 Ensure public participation, related access to justice requirements of the Aarhus Convention applied to projects, plans and programmes relating to or having an impact on biodiversity conservation [2006 onwards].
MandE Monitoring, evaluation and review
Target: C1.1 Annual, Mid-term and Final Reports submitted in timely fashion to Council and Parliament
Action: C1.1.1 Submit annual report on progress in implementation to Council and Parliament [starting end 2007].
Target: C1.2 Indicators in place and informing policy decisions by 2010
Action: C1.2.1 Adopt and apply [by 2007], at EC and MS levels, a small set of biodiversity headline indicators (see Annex 2) which inform the public and decisionmakers on the state and trends of biodiversity, pressures on biodiversity and the effectiveness of key policy measures; adopt and apply at EC level a biodiversity index as a Sustainable Development Indicator and as a Structural Indicator [by 2007]
Target: C1.3 Monitoring providing adequate data flow for implementation of indicator set, for reporting on favourable conservation status, and for broader assessment of effectiveness of this Action Plan by 2010.
Action: C1.3.1 Establish reference values for favourable conservation status for Habitats and Birds Directive habitats and species to achieve a consensus of definitions across Member States [2006/07]; monitor habitats and species status in relation to these values [2007 onwards].
Action: C1.3.2 Use, and as necessary develop, monitoring tools, approaches and frameworks (building on those existing, including those of civil society) in order to establish and coordinate adequate harmonised data flows for the biodiversity indicators to reveal key trends [2007 onwards].
Action: C1.3.3 Develop shared information system for biodiversity monitoring and reporting in the EU, based on agreed biodiversity indicators, which makes data available to all interested users, streamlines reporting and supports policy evaluation and development at national, regional and global levels [2006 onwards].
Target: C1.4 Action Plan adjusted as necessary in 2010, new plan adopted in 2013
Action: C1.4.1 Submit to Council and Parliament in 2009 a concise midterm evaluation of progress towards the 2010 targets (to end 2008) and make any essential adjustments in actions to meet targets.
Action: C1.4.2 Submit to Council and Parliament, in 2011, a full evaluation of extent to which EU has met its 2010 targets.
Action: C1.4.3 Submit to Council and Parliament, in 2014, a full evaluation of extent to which EU has met all post-2010 targets of this Action Plan, and proposing a new Action Plan for the period of the new Financial Perspectives post-2013.