SCHEDULE 1SELECTION CRITERIA FOR RELEVANT PROJECTS
Location of projects2
The environmental sensitivity of geographical areas likely to be affected by projects must be considered, having regard, in particular, to –
a
the existing land use;
b
the relative abundance, quality and regenerative capacity of natural resources in the area;
c
the absorption capacity of the natural environment, paying particular attention to the following areas –
i
wetlands;
ii
coastal zones;
iii
mountain and forest areas;
iv
nature reserves and parks;
v
areas classified or protected under EEA States' legislation; special protection areas designated by EEA States pursuant to Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds7 and Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora8;
vi
areas in which the environmental quality standards laid down in Community legislation have already been exceeded;
vii
densely populated areas;
viii
landscapes of historical, cultural or archaeological significance.