Download (PDF 484 KB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/49593.pdf
Abstract
During the period of the Cold War between 1945 and 1989, a "Green Belt" of valuable pristine landscapes developed along the border line between Eastern and Western Europe, the intensively fortified and guarded so called Iron Curtain. Due to the remoteness of the border areas, a high number of national parks and other large conservation areas can be found there. They are connected by small conservation areas and linear structures along the borders which are to a high percentage natural, semi-natural and/or extensively used areas. The Green Belt is a cross section of all European biogeographical regions and a model for European Green Infrastructure #European Commission 2013# which should be further developed as such. Moreover the Green Belt is an outstanding memorial landscape of European relevancy with a great potential for trans-boundary cooperation, sustainable regional development, the support of understanding among nations and the merging of Europe. Communication and lobbying is essential for preserving the wilderness values of the Green Belt. The common historical and cultural heritage of the Green Belt is an important argument for its protection apart from the conservation aspect. The Green Belt initiative is a geopolitical challenge and change; it connects 24 European countries and stakeholders from governmental and nongovernmental organizations from the local to the international level.
Parent Publication
Keywords
wilderness,
rewilding,
restoration,
private lands,
biodiversity,
conservation,
protected areas,
economics,
community involvement,
policy,
stewardship,
education,
spiritual values
Citation
Friedel, Uwe. 2015. Green Belt Europe - borders separate, nature unites. In: Watson, Alan; Carver, Stephen; Krenova, Zdenka; McBride, Brooke, comps. Science and stewardship to protect and sustain wilderness values: Tenth World Wilderness Congress symposium; 2013, 4-10 October, Salamanca, Spain. Proceedings RMRS-P-74. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 35-41.
