Terrestrial Conservation

Terrestrial conservation in Sicily has become a crucial challenge, as human activities have progressively fragmented habitats that are vital for biodiversity. Much of the island’s landscape is still shaped by agricultural areas fragmented by patches of natural and semi-natural vegetation, yet these ecosystems are increasingly vulnerable to land-use intensification, wildfires, and invasive species. Strengthening terrestrial conservation means safeguarding forests, Mediterranean shrublands, grasslands, and rocky habitats, while promoting land-management practices that preserve ecological connectivity and ensure the ecosystem services essential to local communities. SEF funds terrestrial conservation initiatives aimed at protecting and restoring Sicily’s ecosystems, addressing, among other issues:

-Habitat restoration, species reintroduction, and nature regeneration to counter biodiversity loss and reduce ecosystem fragmentation.

-Improving connectivity between protected areas, including in urbanized contexts.

-Prevention, suppression, and effective management of wildfires.

-Monitoring species and habitats to fill data gaps and support evidence-based management decisions.