More than six million people visit Latvia's natural sites every year; natural assets and protected areas take up almost 12% of Latvia's territory

On 21 May, the international day of Natura 2000, the network of protected nature areas of European importance, is marked; Latvia joined the network 20 years ago. The network includes 333 of our country's outstanding natural sites, which together take up 11.5% of the national territory. Joining the Natura 2000 network has made it possible to attract more than EUR 120 million for nature conservation in Latvia: for scientific research and projects, the development of nature infrastructure, nature education and volunteer involvement in nature conservation. To mark Latvia's 20th anniversary in the Natura 2000 network, the Nature Conservation Agency is running a public engagement campaign."

"This year marks 20 years since Latvia joined Natura 2000, the European Union (EU) network of protected areas of European importance. I encourage everyone to follow the Nature Conservation Agency's activities and planned events. It is a chance to learn more about the role of protected areas in conserving Latvia's nature and to broaden your knowledge of Latvia's natural riches. A greener Latvia, living in harmonious interaction with nature, means a better quality of life for our whole society," says Minister for Environmental Protection and Regional Development Inga Bērziņa.

More than six million people visit Latvia's natural sites every year | Nature Conservation Agency