The Award raises awareness about Natura 2000, the work carried out by different organisations and individuals to safeguard these vital natural assets, and the health, cultural, societal and economic benefits the network provides to us all, as well as its value in its own right.

And it is well-worth applying! The finalists and winners gain from the EU-wide attention to their activities. Previous winners of the Natura 2000 Award have reported an enthusiastic response from the public and partners that has further energised their work.

About the Natura 2000 Award 2022

This pan-European award recognises excellence in the management of Natura 2000 sites and conservation achievements, showcasing the added value of the network for local economies, and increasing public awareness about Europe's valuable natural heritage. The award recognises good practices at Natura 2000 sites in five different categories: Conservation on land, Marine conservation, Communication, Socio-economic benefits, and Cross-border cooperation. The sixth award, the Citizens’ Award, provides the public the opportunity to vote for their favourite finalist.

The Award is open to any organisation or person involved in Natura 2000, including public and local authorities, businesses, NGOs, landowners, educational institutions and individuals.

The application period runs from today, 21 May, the Natura 2000 Day, to September 2021 and the Award Ceremony will take place around Natura 2000 Day in May 2022.

Over the previous five editions, the Natura 2000 Award has received over 500 applications, and has celebrated 121 finalists and 29 winners. And the Citizens’ Award has received an enthusiastic response so far with over 190,000 votes cast between 2015 and 2020.

Visit the Award website now and find out how to apply!