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RESEARCH PRODUCT

New Perspectives on Ecological Networks

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This chapter introduces the theme of ecological networks, exploring the reference theoretical bases within the International academic debate, and proposing a reflection on how protected areas should no longer be considered as the sum of different components, but rather as a network. In relation to this aspect, the transnational and national models of ecological networks, carried out in the different European countries, are analyzed, through a detailed, updated study of relevant national and international documents. Particular attention is given to the European ecological Natura 2000 network that constitutes the official framework for European policies on protected natural areas. The work highlights how different ecological network models are proposed by various national, international, governmental, and non-governmental organizations. In particular, the main difference between governmental and non-governmental is that governmental initiatives have a complex implementing system and various instruments, such as legislation and protection tools, economic and financial instruments, rules for soil use and planning instruments. On the contrary, non-governmental initiatives will inevitably give priority to raising-awareness actions and participatory models involving all concerned stakeholders; such models are less widespread in Europe, where, instead, international, national, and regional governmental initiatives are more common. However, many of these initiatives often appear how non-integrated experiences.