The finalists for the NATURA 2000 awards of the EC were announced. Among them are three Bulgarian projects!

This year the European Commission rewards excellence in the management and conservation of protected areas in the NATURA 2000 ecological network. The awards aim to encourage the most successful achievements and to raise awareness for the network of protected areas and its role in conserving Europe’s natural heritage while promoting social and economic benefits.
This year 40 candidates applied in the following categories – conservation on land, cross-border cooperation, marine conservation, communication, socio-economic benefits, and citizens’ award. Projects and organizations from Estonia, Latvia, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, Romania, Germany, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, and Bulgaria are among the finalists.
Bulgaria is competing in the following categories - New horizons for Natura 2000 in Bulgaria, Code Name Pelican: Restoring the Lower Danube Ecosystem for birds and people and Iconic Vultures restored in NATURA 2000 sites in Bulgaria based on reintroductions.
The team of independent experts identified the three Bulgarian projects as one of the best in Europe, which is a huge recognition for the Bulgarian civil sector and its partnership with state institutions.