The most valuable natural areas in Poland, such as national parks, landscape parks, and nature reserves partially located within them, occupy nearly 10% of the country's territory (approximately 2 million hectares). More protected areas are being created within the framework of the European Ecological Network Natura 2000. In 23 national parks and 120 landscape parks, professional nature protection services are employed. 
Currently, as defined in the Nature Conservation Act, the National and Landscape Parks Services consist of approximately 1,200 people. These are exceptional individuals, dedicated to fulfilling their duty of preserving the treasures of Polish nature and making them accessible to the public.
Is nature conservation in these areas effective? Do nature protection services demonstrate sufficient professionalism? Do they enjoy proper social prestige? Is their work sufficiently appreciated by Polish society? Are they fairly compensated?
The effectiveness of actions is determined by people. However, they need proper legal regulations, sufficient financial and material resources, and widespread social acceptance. Having all of this depends on people, on their professional actions and commitment.
On December 18, 2004, in Krzywe near Wigry, a group of people from national and landscape parks in northeastern Poland gathered and decided to act together. They formed the Polish Society of Nature Protection Services (PTSOP), agreed on its goals, and adopted its statute. On February 4, 2005, the Commercial Court in Białystok registered the Society in the National Court Register, and on February 20, the first General Assembly of Members was held in Białowieża, where the Society's authorities were elected.