The IUCN Green List as a tool for protected area management – the example of City meets Nature

Abstract

Within the framework of the LIFE project Green List for Natura 2000, the LendspitzMaiernigg site (AT2130000, Klagenfurt, Austria) was assessed against the indicators reflecting the four criteria Equitable and Effective Governance, Design and Planning, Effective Management and Conservation Outcomes. Since 2012, graduates of the Management of Protected Areas Master’s programme at Alpe Adria University have been responsible for the site’s management in a pilot governance structure called City meets Nature. During the reflection process, it emerged that the unusual management setup met the Green List criteria very well; 89 % of the indicators were fulfilled completely or partially. However, opportunities to further improve the conservation status of species at the site are limited due to the urban surroundings. The IUCN Green List’s feedback complimented those involved for active management. Self-assessment provided a helpful overview of successes and areas where there is room for improvement. The feedback of the Green List mentor on the project results was particularly encouraging. The example of Lendspitz-Maiernigg shows that the comprehensive governance and management approach presented here is feasible for Natura 2000 sites as well, especially in an urban setting. Profile