ROADLESS AREAS - biodiversity conservation
- Preservation of native biodiversity
- Barrier against invasive species
- Preservation of genetic resources
- Maintenance of ecosystem connectivity and integrity
- Ensure habitat for viability of populations
- Provide migration corridors and stopovers
ROADLESS AREAS - ecosystem services
- Water regulation and supply
- Erosion control
- Air quality
- Climate regulation
- Disease control (e.g. Lyme disease)
- Pollination of crops
- High resilience to pest outbreak
- Recreation
- Education and scientific value
ROADLESS AREAS - climate change
- High resilience and buffering capacity
- Protection against catastrophic events (e.g. fires, landslides, floods)
- Carbon sequestration and decrease of greenhouse gases effects
- Support species adaptation
“Contagious development” effect of roads
Roads provide access to undisturbed areas, thus opening them up for more roads and developments.
AVOID THE FIRST CUT!
Keeping areas road-free is the best way to protect them
Białowieża, Poland © Nuria Selva
Parque Nac Sangay © Pierre Ibisch