Mapping and assessment of the main terrestrial ecosystems Countrywide mapping and assessment of the of the condition and services of the main natural and semi-natural terrestrial ecosystems was initiated at the end of 2018 and completed in 2020 in the course of the national MAES project ELME [1]. This first completed stage is also called ELME1. In 2021 –2023 further methodological refinement and...

Mapping and assessment of the base levels of condition and services Countrywide mapping and assessment of the of the condition and services of the main natural and semi-natural terrestrial ecosystems was initiated at the end of 2018 and completed in 2020 in the course of the national MAES project ELME [1]. The consortium consisted of scientists (University of Tartu, Estonian University of Life...

Socioeconomic mapping and assessment of terrestrial ecosystems Countrywide mapping and assessment of the of the condition and services of the main natural and semi-natural terrestrial ecosystems was initiated at the end of 2018 and completed in 2020 in the course of the national MAES project ELME [1]. This first stage is also called ELME1. In 2021–2023 further methodological refinement and updates...

The species of the year receives more attention throughout the year Every year, natural scientists and environmentalists select new species to be introduced during the year. The animal of the year is selected (so far, only mammals have been selected), but also the bird, tree, fish, butterfly, orchid, moss, and fungus, as well as soil of the year. By being named the species of the year, the species...

Exploration of the earth and core samples A core sample is a column of rock or sediment taken from a borehole by a specially designed drilling method. The core sample is an important source of geological information that provides information on the rocks and sediments in the earth. The properties of the rock layers (mineral and chemical composition, structure, etc.), their sequence, thickness, age...

It was only after World War II that nature conservation was beginning to be systematically addressed in the world Humans cannot do without nature. We get everything we need for life from nature (water, air, food, clothes, etc.); nature also processes waste products and is necessary for the mental well-being of humans. Man has been protecting nature for millennia: the creation of small confined...

What is environmental awareness? How about environmental education and nature education? Environmental awareness is the understanding of the relationship and interaction between man and the environment and the willingness to take them into account in daily activities and choices; an environmentally conscious person bases their decisions on scientifically proven points of view and relevant...

It is easier for both people and animals to move along a trail. Trails connect people, animals, and places With the help of marked trails in nature, it is possible to introduce natural values to hikers both in and outside protected areas. Trails direct visitors away from places where, from a nature conservation point of view, it would be better if people did not go. The Environmental Board, the...

Biodiversity conservation also supports agriculture, forestry, and fishery Human activity has shaped the biodiversity in Europe for more than 5,000 years, since agriculture and animal husbandry first became widespread. However, the agricultural and industrial revolutions of the last 150 years have led to sharp and rapid changes in land use, agriculture, and urbanisation. As a result, we are...

Protecting biodiversity contributes to the preservation of the natural goods provided by the ecosystems that are necessary for human life Biodiversity is a common asset of all people and needs to be carefully preserved and protected to ensure our good living environment. Preserving healty and cohesive ecosystems and the sustainable use of natural resources help reduce the environmental pressure...