ABSTRACT
The loss of biodiversity and the threats to protected areas certainly can be traced back to a broad range of causes. There is no doubt that economic activity which are related to markets represent a major reason for conflicts with nature conservation. However, there are at least three reasons to overcome the traditional antagonism and to contemplate possible synergies between the two spheres. The first and most fundamental consideration refers to the legitimacy of conservation. The second consideration is linked to the overall political climate in which environmental policies are embedded. The political agenda in Europe is largely dominated by liberal economic thinking and by the overall goals of economic growth and creation of jobs. The third consideration is rooted in the ongoing processes of Europeanization and Globalization. While the pros and cons of globalization can be disputed at an overall political level, it is a matter of fact for an individual region.
