International nature protection

Nature does not respect national borders. A species or habitat type can be extremely common in one country, but under threat globally. Therefore, there are a number of international conventions and directives to protect nature in a wider context than just the national. Denmark also takes part in international collaboration on nature protection.

Natura 2000

Natura 2000 is a network of nature protection areas in the EU. The areas have been designated to preserve and protect habitat types and wild animals and plants which are rare, endangered or characteristic for EU countries.

CITES - Trade in endangered species

CITES, also known as the Washington Convention, is an international agreement on trade in endangered wild fauna and flora. The Convention means that a special licence is required, and in some cases there is a full ban on trading in certain animals and plants.

The Convention on Biological Diversity

This Convention protects biodiversity. A supplementary agreement has been established under the Cartagena Protocol, and this contains provisions on genetically modified organisms.

The Bern Convention

The Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats.

The Bonn Convention

The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals. The Convention covers species which migrate across national borders.

The Ramsar Convention

Also known as the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, this has international significance for water fowl.