The Brussels Region has taken a new step forward in protecting its biodiversity with the adoption of several Natura 2000 management plans. These sites now benefit from concrete measures to ensure their preservation and development, as part of the European LIFE Belgium for Biodiversity (LIFE B4B) project.
The Brussels Region is continuing its commitment to biodiversity. The new management plan, approved by the Brussels Government on the initiative of Alain Maron, Minister for the Environment, represents a continuation of efforts to protect and restore the region’s natural areas. Today, more than 90% of the Natura 2000 network in Brussels is covered by dedicated management plans, ensuring strengthened, coherent, and sustainable protection of these sites. Through concrete actions, these plans give nature the opportunity to recover and flourish.
Measures tailored to the specific features of each site:
The Jean Massart Botanical Garden, renowned for its botanical richness and educational role, will benefit from specific actions aimed at strengthening the conservation of its natural habitats and combating invasive species.
The sites around the Woluwe (Watermael-Boitsfort, Auderghem, etc.) are known as habitats for the stag beetle, the largest insect in Europe and a strictly protected species. The use of dead wood—standing, on the ground, or in pyramids—helps support its population and develop its habitat.
The sites around the Woluwe play a vital role as corridors between the Sonian Forest and the Woluwe Valley, serving as hunting grounds for several species of bats. Reducing light pollution here is an effective measure to improve these connections and facilitate the movement of bats.
A strong European and regional commitment
The adoption of these management plans is one of the objectives of the LIFE B4B project—a €3.5 million project co-financed by Europe—which aims to ensure the implementation of European obligations regarding biodiversity protection. The Brussels Region has committed to approving 48 Natura 2000 management plans by December 2025.
“Brussels continues its commitment to biodiversity. These new management plans are essential for safeguarding our natural spaces and tackling climate change. Nature provides us with indispensable services for our health and well-being. Protecting it also means offering a healthier and more pleasant living environment for the people of Brussels,” says Alain Maron.
Public consultations to improve these management plans
The Natura 2000 management plans are subject to public consultation in order to fully involve citizens, associations, and all stakeholders in their development. Several locations are currently involved in this participatory approach. Everyone is invited to consult the documents related to the public enquiry organised from 11 June to 11 July and to share their observations or suggestions. All documents necessary to understand and evaluate the management plans for these Natura 2000 sites are available here. This consultation aims to ensure that the proposed measures take into account the needs of the area and the expectations of society.
