The evaluation is part of a broader "Fitness Check" due in early 2016, which takes stock of EU legislation to ensure that it is fit for purpose. The consultation consists of a range of questions, including whether the directives have met their nature conservation objectives, whether the associated social and economic benefits are appreciated and, if so, whether they are doing so at a reasonable cost.
Interested individuals and organisations across Europe are invited to give their views on key issues through an online public questionnaire that will run for twelve weeks.
"The Birds and Habitats Directives form a cornerstone of Europe's nature conservation policy. It is crucial that any evaluation of the legislation is transparent and open. The best way we can get Europeans engaged in protecting nature is to show that we are open to their suggestions",underlined EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella.
