The first ministerial decree for the establishment of Sites of Community Importance / Special Protection Zones beyond territorial waters has been published in the Official Journal

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Summary:

On [Date], the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development (MASE) published the first decree establishing two marine Sites of Community Importance (SCI) and Special Protection Areas (SPA) beyond territorial waters. The decree, implemented in accordance with the EU’s Habitat Directive, marks a new path for the establishment of Natura 2000 sites beyond territorial waters, for which the MASE has direct competence. This important step is crucial to achieving the goal of protecting 30% of marine areas by 2030.

The two newly established SCI and SPA sites are the “Vercelli Seamount”” and “”Palinuro Seamount””. These marine ecosystems have been identified as being of significant importance for the conservation of European marine biodiversity. The decree is a significant development in the efforts of the Italian government to meet its international commitments to protect marine areas and conserve European natural heritage.

The MASE has been proactive in promoting the establishment of Natura 2000 sites