Territorial trends of the management of the natural heritage
Natural heritage is an essential asset of each region and country. The value of (bio)diversity has been largely recognized by EU policies. Such a heritage must certainly be preserved from hazards, but also creatively managed to reach a condition of sustainable development. New forms of development must be found to assure synergy and co-existence of human activities and actions affecting the natural heritage.

According to the European Landscape Convention, adopted on 20 October 2000 in co-operation with the Council of Europe, the landscape contributes to the formation of local culture and is a basic component of the European natural and cultural heritage, promoting the consolidation of the European identity. Landscape is an important part of the quality of life of different areas of the European continent. However, development within many sectors of activity accelerates the use and transformation of landscapes. Natural heritage is however increasingly considered an asset and a development potential in the economic development of cities and larger territories. The location of new investments is progressively taking factors of qualities in the surrounding areas into account, such access to beautiful landscapes and sites during leisure time. This brings extra focus and potential synergy to the management of the natural heritage.