Apply for the European Natura 2000 Award
- Rural Pact
- Rural Revitalisation Platform
- Resilient rural areas
- Nature and environment
- Climate
- Soil health
- Land use
Applications are open until 30 September for the 8th European Natura 2000 Award, recognising outstanding initiatives protecting Natura 2000 sites while benefitting local communities. Showcase your work in one of five award categories and gain EU-wide recognition.
@European Union, 2026
The European Natura 2000 Award celebrates the added value of nature conservation for local communities and economies across the European Union.
The award recognises activities that demonstrate excellent management of Natura 2000 sites, protected species or habitats in five categories:
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Conservation on land: improving the conservation status of protected species or habitats;
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Marine and coastal: promoting best practices and successful conservation of marine or coastal species or habitats;
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Towns and cities: fostering the natural environment in urban or peri-urban sites;
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Community benefits: creating socio-economic benefits for local stakeholders;
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Public engagement: implementing communication or promotional activities increasing awareness about Natura 2000.
All finalists qualify for the European Citizens’ Award which will be granted by the public through an online vote.
The award welcomes applications from individual entities or groups based in the European Union until 30 September 2026. The winners will be announced at a dedicated ceremony in 2027.
Natura 2000 is a network which encompasses over 27 000 nature sites protected by European Union legislation.
Explore the latest Rural Pact resources on nature and environment.