A challenging mission for the Ecological Network Platform of the Alpine Convention

Members of the Ecological Network Platform of the Alpine Convention met in Valdieri in the Alpi Marittime Nature Park (I) at the beginning of November 2017. At the centre of the discussion was the work on the report commissioned by the Alpine Convention that aims at giving an overview about how aspects of ecological connectivity are currently integrated in spatial planning documents in the Alpine countries. Based on the analysis of a series of case studies, planning documents and expert interviews, the Platform will draft a state of the art report and formulate a number of conclusions that should be presented at the next Alpine Conference. The integration of ecological networks, wildlife corridors and green and blue infrastructure in spatial planning documents is the only sustainable way to insure the conservation of this vital ecological functionality. The report will highlight some examples of good practice and provide the opportunity to start a wider discussion on the topic.