Explotación sostenible de recursos naturales en zonas especiales de conservación (ZEC) que conforman la Red Natura 2000 de la Unión Europea: un análisis de los proyectos mineros

Abstract

This paper presents a brief reflection on the concept of integrity of the Special Conservation Areas (SCA), as a substantial element in the proper evaluation procedure, which should follow any plan or project. This is the last filter by which promoters of activities in protected areas must pass. In order to define the integrity of the SAC, account must be taken of the context in which the projects are developed, the way in which they are established and the Habitats Directive, in accordance with the doctrinal and jurisprudential criteria which have interpreted it, as well as the considerations and analysis from the European Commission itself, with special reference to the interests at stake of the mining sector, as shown in this article. Finally, some sustainable mining practices that could be implemented in the SACs are presented, allowing socio-economic development compatible with the protection of the environment.