Sarah DeWalt

Biodiversity and Cultural Diversity

Hungary is located in the middle-east part of Eastern Europe,

surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains. Hungary is extremely rich
with biodiversity because of their diverse geological formations and
various climatic effects. There are over two thousand plant species and
over 40 thousand animals, including thousands of endemic species.
Hungary has four main tasks to sustain the diversity of their
environment, theyre doing this by providing information to the general
public, selecting recommended Special Areas of Conservation,
expanding the CORINE data base, and having Special Protection
Areas(Biodiversity). The CORINE database is an electronic map around
habitats based on satellite images. Hungarys goal for their biodiversity
is to promote sustainable and long-term development, as well as
prevent future development projects that interfere with the interests of
nature protection.

Hungary has a no tolerance law for discriminating or ruining the

development of minority groups and their political, social, and cultural
accommodations(Fox J.). Some research has found that the Roma are
the main target for this discrimination and suffers from the more

intense prejudice and racism in Hungary. The only reason they are
discriminated against is because they are normally seen as a threat to
the country but Hungary is trying to change that perspective. Some of
Hungarys cultural beliefs that the Roma dont take part in is a sacred
cleansing in Hungarys natural springs, found throughout Hungary.
Since most Hungarians are very religious, people not partaking in
these natural cleanses are seen as devil worshipers.

The hot springs found through out Hungary are one of the
biggest attractions to make them a very bio diverse country. These hot
springs are used for religious practices as well as sustaining the riches
of their environment. Many hot springs have buildings built on or
around them so Hungary can use it as a tourist attraction. These hot
springs are not as well up kept as the ones they have preserved and
are keeping under surveillance, because they are such a sacred part of
their religion. Their hot springs are one of their many Special Areas of
Conservation as well as in their Special Protection Areas.
The map shows where the Romas settle in Hungary and the
picture to the right is one of Hungarys natural hot springs

Biodiversity in Hungary. (2007, July 15). Retrieved April 9, 2015.

Fox, J. (2011, January 1). Tolerance and Cultural Diversity Discourses in Hungary.
Retrieved April 9, 2015.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a5/Hungary_roma_2001.PNG/220px
Hungary_roma_2001.PNG

http://www.pacsafe.com/blog/wpcontent/uploads/2013/10/7336454476_641afca796_o.jpg