Manduria (Italy), October 23-24, 2025 – The Kick-off Meeting and Study Visit of the NESTS Project – “Strengthen the specialist skills of the Natura 2000 sites management bodies to reach the European Biodiversity Strategy 2030 targets” marked the official start of project activities.
Hosted by the Regional Nature Reserves of the Eastern Coast of Taranto, the event brought together Italian and Greek partners — including the Province of Matera, the Municipality of Metsovo, and the Municipality of Paxos — to outline shared strategies for biodiversity preservation, exchange best practices, and promote the sustainable management of Natura 2000 sites.
Over two days, participants discussed project goals, management approaches, and pilot actions focused on ecosystem protection, training, and cross-border cooperation. A study visit to Salina dei Monaci, a Natura 2000 wetland, and to Masseria Marina, the educational farm with a botanical garden, showcased successful conservation practices, local engagement initiatives, and knowledge sharing among partners.
The event marked an important step toward building a shared governance model for biodiversity, aligned with the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030.
