Day 1: Policies, Challenges, and Practical Action
The first day began with dynamic discussions on restoration policies and challenges, complemented by practical examples demonstrating the transition from policy to actionable strategies. Leading voices like Vedran Nikolić of the European Commission and José Luis García Varas from WWF Spain shared their insights on the groundbreaking EU Nature Restoration Regulation. They delved into the EU regulation’s details, which seeks to restore 20% of ecosystems by 2030. As Mr Nikolić emphasized, “This is not just a European effort—it’s a global call to action.”
Afternoon sessions spotlighted Spain’s marine restoration initiatives, presented by the Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica y el Reto Demográfico. Experts shared examples of successful ecosystem restoration, including coastal lagoons, coral reefs, and seagrass meadows, showcasing innovative methods to protect biodiversity and counter climate change. Collaboration, science, and shared strategies were underscored as key to achieving EU restoration goals.
Simultaneously, some attendees embarked on Málaga’s Climate and Biodiversity Tour, guided by Social Climate. The tour highlighted how urban planning and natural ecosystems can work together to adapt to climate challenges while boosting biodiversity. This walk through the city’s green and blue spaces was a refreshing reminder of the tangible benefits that restoration efforts can bring to local communities.
Day 2: Science Meets Policy
The second day focused on bridging science and policy through a capacity-building session that tackled the complexities of conservation decision-making. Working groups brainstormed innovative approaches to ecosystem resilience, climate adaptation, and the socio-economic benefits of biodiversity.
This was followed by a networking exercise, introducing the clustering activities to the community which aim to aid the transference of the thematic projects’ results. Geographical clusters were formed, giving the participants the opportunity to get to know the other actors working in their region (https://natural-heritage.interreg-euro-med.eu/our-map/) and their specific expertise.
The day culminated in the Marketplace, a hub of collaboration where thematic projects showcased their progress, exchanged ideas, and explored partnerships. This vibrant space fostered connections among Mediterranean stakeholders, envisioning a united effort for ecosystem restoration.
The 2nd Natural Heritage Institutional Dialogue was more than a conversation—it was a stepping stone towards actionable strategies and partnerships to ensure a resilient and biodiverse Mediterranean future.
Watch the recordings here:
Day 1: https://bit.ly/3ZjkcRc
Day 2: https://bit.ly/3ViQgDG
Find the presentations here:
Presentations
