Discover the 2024 edition applications!
The European Commission is proud to present the applications to the 2024 edition of the European Natura 2000 Award. You can find out more information about these exciting and inspiring Natura 2000 initiatives from across Europe by navigate the map using filters and search function below in the map below.
Findings from 2024 edition applications
Between now and Spring 2024, the evaluation team will assess the applications received. The shortlist of finalists will be announced in March 2024, when you will be invited to vote for your favourite.
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The European Natura 2000 Award rewards excellence in the management of Natura 2000 sites, and showcases the network’s added value of conserving nature for local communities and economies across the European Union.

Meet the winners of previous editions of the Natura 2000 Award and find out what they have been up to.

Read about previous applicants of the European Natura 2000 Award over the years.

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Discover the five categories and the European Citizens’ Award.

Find out about the application process for the Natura 2000 Award.

Learn about the selection criteria, and how the finalists are evaluated.
The Natura 2000 network means a commitment to nature, with over 27 000 land and marine protected sites across Europe.
The Natura 2000 Award gives you the chance to get the recognition you deserve!
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Events
European Natura 2000 Award Ceremony
- Belgium
- Live streaming available
News

Researchers find landscape features around reserves are key to increasing freshwater-reliant species diversity
Issue 612: Species that rely on freshwater habitat are declining in Europe. This study finds that biodiversity within smaller sites in the European Natura 2000 network is highly impacted by the land use of surrounding areas.

European Natura 2000 Award: call for top nature conservation initiatives open!
Today, on the International Biodiversity Day, the European Commission is launching the 2024 edition of the European Natura 2000 Award.

Celebrate Natura 2000 Day: go out and discover one of our 27 000 protected areas on Sunday 21 May!
On 21 May we celebrate European Natura 2000 Day. This day marks the creation, 31 years ago, of what is now the world’s largest network of protected areas. It offers a haven to Europe's most valuable and threatened species and habitats.