The EU has a well-established biodiversity policy framework that has provided major benefits for biodiversity in Europe. At its heart are the Habitats Directive and Birds Directive, which have created the largest network of protected areas in the world – the Natura 2000 network.

IEEP has a strong track record of supporting the development, implementation, monitoring and enforcement of EU policy for biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Our work helps to strengthen the implementation of the EU Biodiversity Strategy, the Habitats and Birds Directives and the Natura 2000 network. We contribute to EU action on biodiversity by building up the evidence and knowledge base needed to step up action to implement existing EU policies and, where needed, to strengthen and reform EU policy frameworks. Through highlighting the benefits delivered by EU biodiversity initiatives and the cost of inaction, we aim to promote and enhance biodiversity conservation in Europe, and globally.