Provision of digital content for the promotion of the Natura 2000 Network in Ireland

Description

LIFE IP Wild Atlantic Nature is a 9-year project Coordinated by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage aimed at conservation and management of Ireland’s Natura 2000 network, with a special focus on blanket bog. The project covers over 250,000ha of Natura 2000 lands, comprising primarily blanket bogs and associated peatland habitats. In many cases lands contiguous with, but outside of, the Natura 2000 network provide an essential function in supporting the achievement of the Conservation Objectives of the sites themselves. The primary target of LIFE IP Wild Atlantic Nature is delivery of the Prioritised Action Framework (PAF) for Ireland in general, and blanket bog specifically. The PAF sets out the strategic plans for the Natura 2000 network of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) across the EU, aiming to identify and implement the measures needed "to maintain and restore, at a favourable conservation status, natural habitats and species of EU importance, whilst taking account of economic, social and cultural requirements and regional and local characteristics". The Wild Atlantic Nature project aims to deliver benefits to blanket bogs SACs and their associated habitats, species and local communities, in addition to being significantly climate and water quality related. LIFE IP Wild Atlantic Nature is now looking to compile a collection of unique digital content consisting of photography and video assets to be used in Natura 2000 promotional activities. The overarching aim of the promotional campaign, which will run from 2024-2029, is to enhance public awareness and appreciation of Ireland’s Natura 2000 network and increase public appreciation of the ecological value of natural habitats, including blanket bog. The proposed content will relate to themes that work for the general public, and while nature is the central focus of the campaign, underlying themes of culture, tourism and food should be implicit across much of the assets. See CfT document attached for further detailed information.