Doñana: National Park, Biosphere Reserve, Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar Convention), Natural Park, ZEPA, LIC, World Heritage and Council of Europe Diploma.
Doñana is a territory with great ecological and heritage relevance, which has been recognized with various titles and distinctions at a national and international level. Each of them is briefly described below:
- Doñana National Park: It is the oldest title granted to this territory and was created in 1969. It is a protected natural area located in the southwest of the Iberian Peninsula, in the provinces of Huelva, Seville and Cádiz. It has an area of more than 54,000 hectares and is considered one of the most important natural spaces in Europe due to its biodiversity and the presence of endangered species.
- Doñana Biosphere Reserve: This title was granted by UNESCO in 1980, and covers an area of more than 550,000 hectares. The biosphere reserve aims to promote the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources, fostering the sustainable development of local communities.
- Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar Convention): In 1982, the Doñana National Park was declared a wetland of international importance by the Ramsar Conventionhis distinction recognizes the importance of wetlands for the conservation of biodiversity and their role in regulating the water cycle.
- Doñana Natural Park: Created in 1989the Doñana Natural Park covers an area of more than 50,000 hectares and is part of the Doñana National Park. This figure of protection aims to guarantee the conservation of the territory, protecting the flora, fauna and landscape.
- Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA): Doñana has been declared a ZEPA by the European Union in 1986, due to the importance of the area for the conservation of birds. It is a key territory for bird migration and is home to important populations of protected species.
- Site of Community Importance (SCI): In 1997, the EU declared Doñana as SCI, as part of the designation process of the Natura 2000 Network. This protection figure aims to guarantee the conservation of habitats and protected species that inhabit the area. zone.
- UNESCO World Heritage In 1994, Doñana was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in recognition of its natural and cultural relevance. The declaration includes the Doñana National and Natural Park and the surrounding territories.
- Diploma of the Council of Europe: In 1985, the Council of Europe awarded the European Diploma of Conservation to Doñana, recognizing its work in the conservation of nature and cultural heritage. This diploma is a recognition of excellence in the management of protected natural areas.
