Photo: Majella NP archiveIt is vital to protect the remaining European wilderness as European Wilderness provides:

• a refuge for endangered species and a home to undiscovered species;
• habitats with highly adapted fauna and flora, which would be lost forever if these areas disappeared;
• reference laboratories where the natural process of evolution still continues.

Wilderness also offers strong, sustainable economic, social, cultural and environmental benefits:

• addressing climate change through carbon sequestration and flood mitigation:
• nature-based tourism opportunities supporting local rural development:
• potential to help tackle important urban issues such as youth development and healthcare.

Moreover, wilderness areas provide spiritual benefits as places of inspiration, renewal or recreation far from the hustle and pressures of modern life.