The Natura 2000 Award is dedicated to rewarding excellence in the management and promotion of Natura 2000 and to raising awareness about the protected site network and its benefits to European citizens. The Award is open to any organisation or person involved in Natura 2000, including public and local authorities, businesses, NGOs, land owners, educational institutions and individuals.

The Natura 2000 Award is part of the Commission’s recently adopted Action Plan for nature, people and the economy which aims to improve the implementation of the EU Habitats and Birds Directives over the next 3 years. The Action Plan has also proclaimed the 21 of May to be European Natura 2000 Day. This special day will be celebrated through hundreds of public events across Europe. It will also be the day the winners of the Natura 2000 Award will be announced next year at a special ceremony in Brussels, hosted by Karmenu Vella, Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries.

For more information on how to apply, please consult the website: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/awards/.

Promotional materials and visuals are also available: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/awards/promotional-material/index_en.htm.

Contact: Natura 2000 Award: n2000awards@adelphi.de