The European Commission’s traditional “Natura 2000” Award competition is now accepting proposals for the eighth consecutive year, seeking projects that have demonstrated outstanding achievements in contributing to the management of protected areas within the “Natura 2000” network, the conservation and improvement of the status of target species and natural habitat types, as well as for creating value for local communities and economies or for urban nature conservation.

The deadline for applications is September 30, 2026, on the “Natura 2000” Award website - here. The categories for participation in this year’s competition are:

- Conservation on Land - for achievements and best practices in improving the status of species, habitats, and birds under the Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive, as well as for ensuring connectivity between protected areas;

- Marine and Coastal Areas - for achievements and best practices in improving the status of marine or coastal species, habitats, and birds under the Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive, as well as for ensuring connectivity between protected areas;

- Settlements - for achievements in the conservation of species and habitats in entirely or partially urban areas or areas with mixed urban and rural characteristics, for example, through the creation of stepped habitats for species within the Natura 2000 network, as well as achievements in improving the provision of ecosystem services such as resilience to climate change, flood and drought regulation, combating water and air pollution, and others;

- Community benefits - for socioeconomic benefits derived from the Natura 2000 network, such as creating employment opportunities for local communities in tourism, improving the well-being of producers and farmers, and more;

- Public Engagement – for achievements in communication and promotional activities that raise awareness or bring about lasting positive change in the perceptions or actions of the public or specific target groups regarding the Natura 2000 network.

All finalists in the five categories automatically qualify for the “Citizens’ Award.” This recognition is determined by the number of votes cast by the public through an online poll.  

Applying offers significant promotional and professional benefits. All candidates’ work will be featured on the award’s website. Finalists will be promoted through the European Commission’s communication channels and will receive professional social media training, personalized promotional visuals, and an invitation to an exclusive networking event.

The winners will receive their awards in May 2027 at a special ceremony. More information about the “Natura 2000” Award is available here.

Over the years, Bulgaria has actively participated in and received recognition at the European level for its efforts related to the Natura 2000 network:

• In 2022, the project “Natura 2000 in Bulgaria: New Horizons” won in the “Communication” category.
• In 2020, the project “Partnership for the Conservation of Bulgaria’s Ancient Forests in Natura 2000” won the “Citizens’ Award.”
• In 2018, the project “Help for the Egyptian Vulture” won in the “Cross-Border Cooperation and Networking” category.
• In 2016, the project “For the Balkans and the People of Bulgaria” won the award for socio-economic benefits.
• In 2014, at the first “Natura 2000” Awards, the project “Conservation of the Imperial Eagle and the Saker Falcon in Their Key Habitats within the Natura 2000 Network in Bulgaria” won in the “Conservation” category.