Key topics for reaching the EU 2020 Biodiversity Target in Denmark

 

• Threats from a specific sector: Intensive farming as key threat to biodiversity. Most Natura 2000 sites, especially wetlands (meadows, bogs and lakes), are to a great extent threatened by nitrogen deposition originating mostly from large livestock farms, most notably pig farms. Almost two thirds of Denmark is covered by rather intensive agriculture that is still heavily subsidised by the Common Agriculture Policy.

 

• Species protection: Species protection is strong in Denmark. Only rarely do protected species get intentionally killed, and when it happens, it gets massive media coverage, especially if raptors are the case. Since implementation of the Habitats Directive, protection of annex IV species has greatly improved, so that protection of e.g. bats and amphibians are taken into account in every planning of new roads, building etc.