Romania’s rich biodiversity and diverse landscapes offer opportunities that go beyond nature-based tourism, creating potential for sustainable agriculture, rural development and water management.
Wildlife conservation and rural economies
Romania is home to the largest population of brown bears in the European Union, with the species found across the Carpathian Mountains. One of the best-known conservation initiatives is the Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zărnești, Brașov County. Covering almost 70 hectares of forest, the sanctuary provides a protected environment for more than 130 rescued bears.
The European bison, once extinct in the wild in Romania, is also making a comeback through reintroduction and conservation programmes. Bison can now be found in several reserves managed by Romsilva (national forest administration), including those in Bucșani, Hațeg and Vânători-Neamț, as well as in rewilding areas in the Țarcu and Făgăraș Mountains.
The return of the European bison demonstrates how conservation and rural development can be connected. Rewilding initiatives can support new opportunities for wildlife observation, guided experiences, accommodation and local services, creating additional sources of income for communities in rural and mountain areas.
Biodiversity and agriculture can go hand in hand
Romania's extensive rural areas also create opportunities to develop models that combine agricultural production with biodiversity conservation. Extensive livestock farming, grazing and traditional land management practices can contribute to maintaining valuable landscapes and habitats, while nature-based tourism can provide farmers and rural communities with additional sources of income.
Romania offers opportunities to exchange knowledge and explore approaches that connect sustainable land management, biodiversity and rural entrepreneurship.
Such models can be particularly relevant in rural and marginal areas, where diversification of agricultural activities and additional income streams can contribute to the long-term resilience of local economies.
The Danube Delta - biodiversity and water management
The Danube Delta is one of Romania's most important natural assets and one of Europe's best-preserved deltas. The majority of the wetland lies in Romania, where it provides a habitat for more than 300 bird species, including pelicans, swans, herons, eagles and storks.
The area is also home to otters, wild boar, wild cats and foxes, while the Letea Forest is known for its population of free-roaming wild horses. Its exceptional biodiversity makes the Danube Delta an important destination for birdwatching and other forms of nature-based tourism.
At the same time, the Delta highlights the importance of balancing economic development with environmental protection and effective water management. Investments in sustainable tourism infrastructure, local services and responsible visitor management could strengthen the local economy while preserving the area's fragile ecosystems.
Romania's extensive wetlands, rivers and floodplains also provide opportunities to explore nature-based solutions that combine biodiversity protection, water management and climate resilience. Dutch companies and knowledge institutions, with their long-standing expertise in water management and climate adaptation, could find opportunities for cooperation in this field.
Beeld: © Parcul Natural Bucuresti
Nature in Romania’s urban areas
Romania's natural heritage is not limited to remote rural areas. Văcărești Nature Park, located around four kilometers from central Bucharest, is an example of how nature can reclaim former infrastructure and create new urban ecosystems.
The 183-hectare park developed on the site of an abandoned water infrastructure project and is now home to numerous bird species, fish and reptiles. Otters and foxes can also occasionally be spotted in the area.
The park demonstrates the potential for integrating biodiversity and nature-based solutions into urban development, offering opportunities to rethink how cities can use former infrastructure sites and green spaces to improve resilience and quality of life.
Opportunities for international cooperation
Romania's diverse natural landscapes and rich biodiversity provide a strong foundation for sustainable regional development. Nature-based tourism can create new economic links between visitors, farmers, rural entrepreneurs and local communities, while conservation projects can support biodiversity and generate new economic activity in rural areas.
For Dutch companies and knowledge institutions with expertise in sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, water management, rural development and nature-based solutions, Romania offers opportunities to exchange knowledge and develop projects that combine environmental protection with economic development.
Romania's natural capital is therefore more than an environmental asset or a reason to visit. It can also support the diversification of rural economies, the development of sustainable agricultural models and the creation of new opportunities for cooperation between Romanian and Dutch businesses and organizations.
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More information
For more information, you can reach out to the Netherlands Agricultural Network in Romania via: bkr-lvvn@minbuza.nl