Natura 2000 is a Europe-wide netwrok of over 27,800 nature conservation areas. It covers almost a fifth of Europe’s land area and nearly 10% of the surounding seas. The European Natura 2000 Award honours conservation achievements and rewards excellence in the management and promotion of the Natura 2000 network.

Until 30 September 2019, any entity involved in activities related to Natura 2000 – businesses, authorities, NGOs, volunteers, land owners, educational institutions and individuals – can apply to one of the five award categories:

• Conservation
• Socio-economic benefits
• Communication
• Reconciling interests/perceptions
• Cross-border cooperation and networking

Applications will be assessed by a team of independent experts, and the winners will be announced on Natura 2000 Day (21 May 2019). The winners will be invited to a high-level ceremony at the European Commission headquarters in Brussels, and the awards will be given by the Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries. Winners will also receive support to organise high-profile local events attended by representatives of the European Commission.

Additionally, the application with the highest number of nominations through a public vote on the award website will receive the “EU Citizens’ Award.”

Information on how to apply can be found on the award website: https://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/awards/how-to-apply/index_en.htm