Case Studies about Non-Energy Mineral Extraction in Natura 2000

The EU Action Plan for nature, people and the economy requires the Commission, under Action 8, to “identify with Member States and other stakeholders best practices on investment for extractive operations and for land rehabilitation and restoration by non-energy mineral extractive industry, in order to complement the existing guidance on non-energy mineral extractive industry in Natura 2000”.

The aim is to communicate best practices in order to enhance the planning, design and implementation of non-energy extractive industry (NEEI) activities taking into account the provisions of the nature directives (Birds and Habitats directives) and contributing to improving biodiversity, while, at the same time, meeting the demand for  raw materials and ensuring the sustainable development of extractive activities.

With this in mind, this booklet presents a collection of practical examples covering various types of mineral extraction and different stages of the mine life-cycle, including planning and design of operations, impact assessment and mitigation during the extraction phase, rehabilitation and after-care once the extractive activity is completed. The selected case studies are grouped according to the following main types of best
practice that they aim to illustrate:
– Partnerships, stakeholder cooperation.
– Impact assessment and mitigation.
– Rehabilitation: habitat restoration and improving species conservation.

The focus is on Natura 2000 sites and habitats and species covered under the nature directives, both in terrestrial and marine areas.

Download the full version of the booklet here.