Benefits
What does PAN Parks bring for member protected areas?
- Improved wilderness conservation– Through both the independent audit and the exchange of experience within the network, PAN Parks certification provides tools to improve nature and visitor management standards for wilderness protection.
- Independent audit - Certification demonstrates that the protected area is managed with high standards of quality management and practice.
- Easier access to funding - PAN Parks can assist parks to acquire funding and can also provide direct support for projects ensuring verification.
- Expertise exchange in a living network – Being part of a network brings access to collective knowledge and support mechanisms.
- Co-operation with rural communities - PAN Parks facilitates real dialogue between local stakeholders to help alleviate unnecessary conflict.
- Tools to control and monitor tourism - PAN Parks provides professional support and tools to help develop effective sustainable tourism and visitor management.
- Support in lobbying at decision makers - PAN Parks supports protected areas in their efforts to influence key decision makers for more park friendly policies.
- International recognition - PAN Parks provides support and promotional activities for certified protected areas.
How does PAN Parks benefit local people?
Photo: ANP ArchiveIncreased collaboration in park management - Local communities have the possibility to become directly engaged. Improved communication and collaboration develops mutual understanding and conflict resolution.
- Developing a destination – This brings international recognition as a part of the best of Europe’s wilderness .
- Small business promotion – The PAN Parks brand and promotion activities opens up access to new markets. Eco-certification brings an assurance of quality.
- New jobs and economic benefits – Implementing the Sustainable Tourism Development Strategy opens up opportunities for new product development resulting also in increased visitor numbers.
What benefits do PAN Parks offer for visitors?
- Guarantee of real wilderness areas - The PAN Parks brand enables tourists to be assured of that they are really visiting the best of Europe’s wilderness.
- Unique wilderness experience - Access to these extraordinary wilderness areas offering unique activities.
- Certified tourism facilities - Local tourism businesses are certified based on environmental standards and their commitment to conservation. Local PAN Parks partners are knowledgeable about the park and help visitors experience and discover wilderness firsthand.
- Contribution to wilderness conservation - If visitors stay at PAN Parks local partners, they contribute to the protection of the areas.
