Portugal designates final two Natura 2000 conservation zones, ending decades-old EU breach

The Portuguese government has approved the last two special areas of conservation under the EU Habitats Directive, covering Serra da Estrela and Alvito/Cuba. This completes all 61 designations that were the subject of EU infringement proceedings. Portugal was convicted twice by the EU Court of Justice, most recently in March 2026, with a €10 million fine and a daily penalty of €41,250. Officials say the decision allows the daily penalty to stop once full compliance, including conservation measures, is confirmed. The Serra da Estrela zone spans 88,535 hectares across seven municipalities; Alvito/Cuba is a mostly rural, farmed area.