ECSOs joint Action for the Promotion of the Nature 2000 Network in Albania – APN2000
Albania’s coastal and marine ecosystems, especially within the Vjosa-Narta Protected Landscape and the Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park, are areas of exceptional biodiversity and ecological value. However, they are increasingly threatened by habitat degradation, environmental crimes, and weak enforcement of environmental laws. In response, this project aims to strengthen the role and capacity of Environmental Civil Society Organizations (ECSOs) and Local Action Groups (LAGs) to actively participate in shaping and implementing environmental conservation policies in alignment with the EU Natura 2000 Network and international biodiversity commitments.
The Action
The project adopts a comprehensive approach to environmental protection by focusing on:
- Building the advocacy and conservation capacities of local ECSOs and LAGs;
- Supporting the implementation of concrete conservation and climate change actions;
- Raising awareness and promoting behavioural change among key local actors and the younger generation.
Work Packages
To achieve its objectives, the project is structured into three main Work Packages (WPs):
WP1 – Capacity Building and Advocacy: Enhancing the technical and advocacy skills of local ECSOs and LAGs to monitor biodiversity, fight environmental degradation, and report crimes.
WP2 – Concrete Conservation Actions: Supporting collaborative efforts with authorities to implement tangible biodiversity protection and restoration initiatives.
WP3 – Awareness and Behavioural Change: Targeting youth, local communities, and economic interest groups to foster a culture of environmental responsibility and conservation.
Target Groups
The project targets a wide spectrum of actors essential to environmental governance and conservation, including:
- Local ECSOs and LAGs;
- Policy and decision-makers from national and local authorities;
- Albanian Coast Guard, Municipal Police, RAPA, and the Fisheries Inspectorate;
- Economic interest groups such as fishermen, tourism operators, and farmers;
- Students under 25 from local schools and universities.
Stakeholders
Collaboration with institutional and international partners is a key element of the project. Key stakeholders include:
- National Agency for Protected Areas (AKZM) and Regional Administration for Protected Areas (RAPA) of Vlora – as leading governmental bodies involved in field-level conservation and enforcement;
- Ministry of Tourism and Environment – supporting policy dialogue and advocacy processes;
- Municipality and Prefecture of Vlora – crucial for local coordination, awareness, and reporting of environmental issues;
- International organizations and agencies;
- Protected Area Management Committees.
Implementation and Duration
The action is led by CELIM in cooperation with PPNEA. The project will be implemented over a period of 30 months, starting in December 2024. Collaboration among governmental institutions, international organizations, and civil society will be key to achieving long-term impact and sustainability.
Through this action, we aim not only to improve environmental governance and biodiversity conservation in southern Albania but also to empower civil society to become an essential actor in shaping the future of Albania’s natural heritage.