PanParks

Wilderness in Europe is a concept many do not recognise - yet, there is still wilderness throughout Europe. It survives in virgin forests, along rivers, marshlands, in high mountains or caves, and under the sea. However, compact, un-fragmented and well-managed wilderness areas are very scarce in Europe. Wilderness protection is not considered a priority by the public, politicians and even some conservationists. We are constantly losing the last fragments of our European Wilderness Heritage. The remaining natural forests are penetrated by sanitary logging operations, remote mountains echo with the roar of tractors and bulldozers, and new roads crisscross the last undisturbed mountain valleys in Europe. The word 'wilderness' has many definitions; it often refers to 'virgin' areas, a natural environment that has not been significantly modified by human activity. These are core areas for nature. Wilderness areas are places where natural processes and wildlife thrive and major human interference is avoided.

PAN Parks, the European wilderness protection organization, works for the protection, greater understanding and appreciation of Europe’s wilderness areas.

• protects the natural habitats and fragile ecosystems so vital to the future of Europe’s wilderness,
• advocates, using the PAN Parks Certification to ensure these wilderness areas are safeguarded, enhanced and appreciated,
• builds collaborative partnerships amongst individuals and organizations who, together, can protect wilderness by sharing knowledge and growing understanding,
• promotes sustainable, responsible tourism to foster love, respect and pride for Europe’s wilderness.