The Functioning of Natura 2000 Areas in the Opinion of Different Groups From the Local Community: A Case Study From Poland

This article examines the perceptions of 420 residents living, working, or running their own business in Puszcza Notecka, one of the largest Special Protection Areas (SPAs) in Poland. The questionnaire survey shows differences in ecological awareness among three different groups in the local community: residents, administrators, and entrepreneurs. According to participants in the questionnaire, the community has not become familiar with or fully understood the objectives for which this form of nature protection, Natura 2000, was created. They would like to familiarize themselves with the protected area (PA) development strategy and the meaning of actions relating to the protection of such areas, but the lack of clear information and transparent decision making has amplified the misunderstanding and conflict around environmental conservation. Understanding the benefits and losses to people who live in and around PAs is fundamental to balancing conservation goals with the needs of local human populations.