Supoort Wilderness Assessment of the European Wilderness Society

The European Wilderness Society developed a Wilderness Assessment system (EWQA) to evaluate existing Wilderness Areas in Europe and to promote homogenous standards for Europe. The assessment is based on a large number of indicators divided into nine different categories determining the ecological quality as well as the management quality of wilderness areas. After a successful evaluation the wilderness areas are awarded a certificate (Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum). In 2015, the European Wilderness Society commissioned E.C.O. to discuss the approach for the Wilderness Assessment with regards to the current scientifc debate on wilderness and its assessment. The results allow for an improved linkage between the recent research results and the approach of the European Wilderness Society.