EU Birds Directive
Together with its counterpart, the Habitats Directive, the Birds Directive has made a key contribution to conservation in the UK, benefiting wildlife and people. Those who drew up the Birds Directive are to be applauded for producing legislation which is still working for the broader public interest.
Safeguarding special places for people and wildlife
Some of the UK's most special wildlife and habitats that we cherish today, have been protected by the Birds Directive. The RSPB has published a report celebrating the Directive's success.
In this section
What is the Birds Directive?
The Birds Directive deals with conservation of all wild birds in the EU, including marine areas.
Birds Directive achievements
The Birds Directive has helped protect species, habitats and human interest.
The RSPB's role
The RSPB has assisted the development and implementation of the Birds Directive in many ways. Find out more.
Benefits of the Birds Directive
The main purpose of the Birds Directive is to conserve birds as part of the long-term protection and management.
Cases that went ahead with suitable checks and balances
Cases that went ahead, including Humber flood defence works.
Where the Directive triumphed
Cases where the directive triumphed, including Cliffe, Kent, and Holton Heath, Purbeck.
Where the Directive failed to stop damaging development
Where damaging development had negative effects on wildlife.