Protected areas and the National Ecological Reserve (REN) in Portugal are subject to strict restrictions to protect their ecological value and environmental sensitivity. Here are the main restrictions that apply:
Protected Areas
-
Nature Conservation:
Protected areas are designated for nature and biodiversity conservation. Any activity that may harm these objectives is generally restricted or prohibited.
-
Limited Construction:
Construction in protected areas is highly restricted. Only projects that do not harm the ecological balance or that are of relevant public interest may be considered, and even so, they are subject to rigorous evaluation and approval processes.
-
Management and Co-management:
The management of protected areas involves co-management between the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF), municipalities, and other relevant entities, to ensure that permitted activities are compatible with conservation objectives.
National Ecological Reserve (REN)
-
Construction Prohibition:
In the REN, subdivision operations, urbanization works, building construction, opening of communication routes, excavations and landfills, and any destruction of vegetation cover that is not aligned with normal agricultural or forestry use are prohibited.
-
Limited Exceptions:
Exceptions to restrictions may be made if the actions are compatible with ecological protection and natural risk prevention objectives, present relevant public interest, and cannot be carried out outside the REN. Such exceptions require approval by order or joint dispatch of the responsible ministers.
-
Protection Objectives:
The REN aims to protect natural resources, especially water and soil, and safeguard essential ecological processes. Restrictions are implemented to ensure ecosystem protection and sustainable territory management.
These restrictions are essential to ensure environmental protection and sustainability of sensitive areas in Portugal, ensuring that human development does not compromise the integrity of natural ecosystems.