How can we ensure the long-term financing of protected areas as Europe expands its conservation ambitions through the Trans-European Nature Network (TEN-N)?

This webinar explores the costs associated with expanding protected area networks, funding opportunities from both EU public funds and private financing, and what is on the horizon with the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). Through the Sonian Forest case study and innovative projects like the BioClima initiative participants will gain a clearer understanding of financing strategies to build a truly coherent TEN-N as highlighted by the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. The webinar also aims to gather participants’ feedback and insights on the costs related to protected areas. The input will play a valuable role in shaping the “Financing the TEN-N" module on the NaturaConnect Learning Platform, currently in development as part of the NaturaConnect project.

Agenda:

1. Welcome and Introduction - Evelyn Underwood (Head of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services at IEEP)
2. What are the different types of costs associated with the extension of a protected area network? A case study on the Sonian Forest - Auriane Flottes de Pouzols (Policy Assistant at IEEP)
3. An overview of EU public funds and private financing - Auriane Flottes de Pouzols
4. Open feedback session on insights into the costs and funding mechanisms associated with protected areas
5. BioClima initiative: Promoting public-private partnerships as a funding opportunity for ecosystem services in Lombardy Region - Giulia Amato (Coordinator of the Nature Governance Program at Etifor)
6. BioClima Q&A - Giulia Amato
7. What is next with the upcoming MFF? - Evelyn Underwood
8. Open discussion and closing of the webinar - Evelyn Underwood

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