Favourable reference values and nature conservation objectives across the EU: An inventory of defining favourable reference values and national nature conservation objectives across 15 European member states

This inventory shows that EU countries struggle when establishing favourable reference values (FRVs) for determining favourable conservation status (FCS). The European Commission clearly states that FRVs should be set on the basis of scientific data and/or expert judgement, however not all countries have adequate monitoring data or the necessary professional/financial capacity to comply. Concurrently, in anticipation of the Nature Restoration Law, there is an increasing urgency to set FRVs. When setting national nature conservation objectives, it is also necessary to account for other societal values, such as socio-economic values, climate adaptation, and safety. However, these should never conflict with the general aim of the Birds and Habitats Directives, namely ensuring the long-term distribution, abundance and survival of habitats and species (including birds).