TransEcoNet - Landscapes without borders

Ecological networks are areas of ecologically valuable landscapes. They consist of core zones, such as national parks, surrounded by less protected landscapes which are connected by ecological corridors and stepping stones, such as river ways, woodlands, hedge or tree rows. They serve as important migration routes and habitats for plants and animals. The project regions are situated within or between the wide-ranging ecological networks of the Alps, the Carpathians and the European Green Belt.
Especially the transnational dimension of ecological networks is becoming more important in times of increased landscape fragmentation by traffic corridors, settlements and commercially used areas. The overall aim of the CENTRAL EUROPE Project TransEcoNet is a comprehensive inventory and the protection of ecological networks and their natural and cultural heritage. The project partners elaborated, analysed and assessed parts of the Central European network regarding

• transboundary connectivity and existing gaps;

• land use changes since the end of the 18th century;

• ecological functionality of landscapes and services they provide to society and

• national planning tools, regulations and transnational cooperation initiatives dealing with ecological networks.

TransEcoNet, which runs from January 2009 until July 2012, contributes to the pan-European interlinkage of valuable ecosystems and to a sustainable territorial development. It strives for an improved public awareness of ecological networks.


LINK TO THE PROJECT RESULTS