Protected areas are a leading conservation tool for preserving biodiversity. However,
the restrictions on human uses often engender resistance of local communities to the
idea of living in protected environment. This paper describes the preparation of Biodiversity
Investment Opportunities (BIO) maps for seven case areas in Central and South-Eastern
Europe, using participatory methods. BIO maps have been further developed with the
involvement of local stakeholders to define areas that can support economic activities
while achieving a no net loss or even benefits for nature. The BIO maps can then be
used to foster the development of Pro-Biodiversity Businesses (PBBs). PBBs are enterprises
that generate financial returns without compromising the natural environments they
depend on. PBBs were found to be a viable solution, effective in changing the perceptions
of both the park managers and the local people towards the protected areas. Moreover,
these enterprises can improve the local livelihoods, as well as actively protect nature
and biodiversity. Therefore, the approach presented in this paper can be adopted as
a model for managing any protected area and conserving cultural landscapes.
