The status, conservation and sustainable use of Estonian wetlands

摘要: In Estonia, as in other countries, the area of wetlands has diminished remarkably due to different utilization for economic needs. Comparatively large areas natural have, however, been preserved. The country’s and political situation changed rapidly since regaining independence 1991 accession European Union 2004 brought about new challenges sustainable use resources. This paper provides an update conditions Estonia and, part, represents relevant materials that are described country when it was under rule former USSR (Botch Masing 1983, this volume). We review diversity status describe main problems wetland use. Substantial progress achieved conservation a significant proportion valuable (a total 33 habitat types covering more than 300,000 ha) legally protected included integral united system areas. All Special Protection Areas 80% Conservation Natura 2000 network represent lesser or greater amount habitats. preservation are: (1) management drained have become sources greenhouse gases; (2) attaining peat resources ensuring restoration cut-away peatlands; (3) maintenance traditional semi-natural wetlands. addition, increasing pressure various development projects tourism on Estonia’s need be evaluated. Wetlands also seen important basis 100 used primary secondary treatment wastewater. Energy production from plant biomass is considered promising source small-scale heating plants.