The Bulgarian information project “Natura 2000 in Bulgaria: New Horizons” won the Natura 2000 award of the European Commission in the “Communication” category. The project was implemented by the Green Balkans in partnership with Darik Radio, Dnevnik, Capital, and Hobby TV. The award was accepted by the project manager Mrs. Elena Stoeva.

At a ceremony in Brussels marking the 30th anniversary of the creation of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas in the European Union, Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries Virginijus Sinkevičius announced the winners of this year’s Natura 2000 Awards. Bulgaria, Austria, Greece, Portugal, and Spain, as well as a cross-border project from Germany, Austria, Luxembourg, and Switzerland.

Green Balkans received the award in the “Communication” category, with an expected project reach of 4.5 million people. “I am glad that the award is given to a Bulgarian project,” said Elena Stoeva, project manager. “For me, this is the result of our excellent cooperation with the media partners, thanks to which our messages reach people. I accept this award in recognition of the contribution to the conservation of nature by civil society organizations such as the Green Balkans.”

The Natura 2000 Award singles out successful examples of environmental protection in the EU. This large-scale information campaign, funded by the EU LIFE program, seeks to raise awareness of the Natura 2000 network, one of the most successful tools for preserving Europe’s rich natural heritage. Within the campaign, audio, visual and written content has been created and distributed through online broadcasts, daily and weekly newsletters, and a YouTube channel. National events and webinars have also been organized. The Citizens’ Prize is awarded by online voting.

In addition to the categories of Earth protection, communication, socio-economic benefits, and cross-border cooperation, this year the awards are presented in an additional one - protection of the marine environment. The aim is to promote the many important efforts throughout the Union to strengthen the protection of marine and coastal species and habitats.