European Natura 2000 Award

Apply now!

Click on the Apply now! link above to visit the Natura 2000 Award website and get the recognition you deserve!

The Award website provides background information to the Award, as well as fascinating insights into past applications, finalists and winners. Specific support on the application process can be found here. You can find descriptions of all the five categories on the Award categories page. More in-depth explanations of the kinds of information to be provided for each category is available on the Selection and evaluation page.

Did you know that all the information on the Award is available in your national language? You can choose to read the Natura 2000 Award website in the language of your choice by clicking on the 🌐 icon at the top of the webpages. The application form is also available in all EU languages, except Maltese and Gaelic.

The Award and the application process were also explained in more detail in a dedicated information webinar. You can find the presentations made at the webinar, and a recording of the webinar, here. 

If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to contact the Award Secretariat.

All types of public and private organisations – businesses, authorities, NGOs, volunteers, landowners, educational institutions or individuals – involved in managing one or more Natura 2000 sites across the European Union are eligible to apply.

Get the recognition you deserve – your application will be promoted across the Award website and social media channels, ensuring that your achievements become an inspiration for a wider audience that is motivated to protect Europe’s valuable biodiversity and nature. If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited to join networking opportunities with organisations working in similar fields, a professional social media training, and the Award Ceremony in Brussels! In addition, Award winners receive a small financial prize and support in reaching a broader relevant audience in their country.  

You can hear from previous winners on the dedicated Winners' page on the Award website, as well as the other numerous benefits of applying for the Award.

Forward this newsletter to them, or use our social media visuals to get the word out on social media.

The Award is a unique opportunity to show the many different ways the Natura 2000 network can be protected and managed! In this edition, we particularly encourage applications to the Marine conservation category and applications from Estonia, Lithuania, Cyprus, Greece, Ireland, Latvia, Malta, Poland and Slovakia.