Deer grazing in the New Forest in England. Gorse was important as medicine, food and a dye. Now it is the home of the rare Dartford Warbler. Photos copyright University of Southampton/Forestry Commission

Habitats and Species Directive in the European Union The Habitat and Species Directive, adopted by the European Union in 1992, may be the European Community's most significant conservation action in the last decade. This Directive contributes to the preservation of biodiversity by protecting natural and seminatural habitats and wild flora and fauna. Member nations are required to maintain the ecological processes of ecosystems, preserve genetic and species diversity, and use natural resources in a sustainable manner. These ambitious goals will be met by maintaining, and if necessary restoring, "Special Areas of Conservation" explicitly for the conservation of resident biodiversity. The Directive lists 168 habitat types, 193 animal species, and 432 plant species that must be protected. Seventy-five of these habitat types occur in England, among them bogs, oak woodlands, and heathlands. Altogether, lands accounting for 3% of England's area have been identified for protected status. 1 of 3