Location of projects

• The environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected by projects must be considered, having regard, in particular, to:

  • the existing land use;

  • the relative abundance, quality and regenerative capacity of natural resources in the area;

  • the absorption capacity of the natural environment, paying particular attention to the following areas:

    1. (a)

       wetlands;

    2. (b)

       coastal zones;

    3. (c)

       mountain and forest areas;

    4. (d)

       nature reserves and parks;

    5. (e)
       areas classified or protected under Member States' legislation; special protection areas designated by Member States pursuant to Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds25 and 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and wild fauna26;
    6. (f)

       areas in which the environmental quality standards laid down in Community legislation have already been exceeded;

    7. (g)

       densely populated areas;

    8. (h)

       landscapes of historical, cultural or archaeological significance.