Abstract
The Natura 2000 network is the cornerstone of EU Biodiversity Strategy aiming at halting the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services (ES) provided by natural and semi-natural ecosystems to human populations. Member States are mainly responsible to implement conservation strategies through management plans or conservation measures, but in many cases the level of development and execution of these instruments is very low and management effectiveness is rarely achieved. The project LIFE+ “Making Good Natura” aims to provide a governance tool for an efficient management of Natura 2000 sites based on the qualitative and quantitative valuation of ES and innovative models of self-financing by Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) or other mechanisms. A qualitative assessment of ES was obtained through maps and stakeholder perceptions. These first insights are the basis for integrating the ES approach within conservation strategies of Natura 2000 sites.