Boom of participants for the event “Policoro between nature, biodiversity and conservation”, organized by the Province of Matera within the framework of the NESTS project.
More than 80 people, both children and adults, took part in the initiative, showing strong participation from the local community. This represented an important opportunity for enhancing environmental awareness-raising and direct engagement of citizens, with particular attention to younger generations, fully reflecting NESTS’ commitment to promoting greater awareness of biodiversity and the value of natural habitats.
The day started at the WWF Policoro Oasis Centre, where participants were welcomed by the environmental educators of WWF Costa Ionica Lucana. Through an introductory session, the educators presented the main features of the area, focusing on local flora and fauna and on the activities carried out within the Oasis for biodiversity protection, conservation and enhancement.
After this introduction, participants moved to the Bosco Pantano Nature Reserve, where they were able to discover one of the most significant environments of the area from a naturalistic point of view.
A specific educational focus was also dedicated to sea turtles. Then, the visit continued at the Wildlife Rescue Centre, which is committed to the care, recovery and protection of wild animals.
The event concluded with remarks by Francesco Mancini, President of the Province of Matera, who expressed his satisfaction with the strong participation, especially among young people. He stressed the importance of environmental education and biodiversity protection, highlighting the key role of younger generations in promoting respect for nature and building a more sustainable future.
The event in Policoro represents a further step in the implementation of NESTS awareness-raising activities, in continuity with the initiatives already promoted by the partnership, including the “Tree Festival” organised by the Lead Beneficiary on 28 November 2025 and the regional info day held in Metsovo on 24 June 2026 by the Municipality of Metsovo. All these activities share a common objective: promoting environmental education and raising awareness on the value of trees, biodiversity and natural habitats.
