Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B IPA Adriatic-Ionian

Date of latest update: 2026-01-29

Description

Description (EN):

The 4PETHABECO project aims to test solutions to protect and restore flora and fauna, in particular terrestrial habitats and populations of large carnivores, also envisaging the use of green infrastructure, and to improve connectivity (call thematic focus “Biodiversity protection and preservation, including protected areas and areas under Habitat and Birds Directives”, ADRION 1st call indicative action 2 “Test solutions to protect and restore flora and fauna (with particular attention to algae/poseidonia oceanica, large carnivores, pollinating insects, migrators, fishes), also envisaging the use of blue and green infrastructure.”). The specific objectives of 4PETHABECO are: (1) reinforcement of collaboration inside AIR to foster synergies and harmonization of large carnivores’ monitoring procedures and techniques, increase transparency of data acquisition and interpretation, lower uncertainties about large carnivores’ protection and conservation of their habitats (in particular to support measures under the Habitats Directive for the recovery of large carnivores); (2) dealing with increasing challenges connected with social conflicts connecting with LC-human coexistence, cultural and environmental impacts on large carnivores’ habitats for their conservation in restoration with improved participatory processes for innovative management of large carnivores’ habitats; (3) design opportunities at local communities level, design Living Labs network and pose knowledge bases inside AIR for dealing with coexistence conflicts, cultural differences, restoration of LC green infrastructure and eco-corridors. The strategic aim is to co-create common strategies and action plans to protect and enhance natural terrestrial habitats of large carnivores and improving their resilience, that is the main objective of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO (PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT OF NATURAL TERRESTRIAL HABITATS AND ECOSYSTEMS). The PET HAB ECO flagship overall objective is to improve the resilience of large carnivores’ populations at transnational level in a territory characterized by human dominated or fragmented ecosystems in the face of environmental threats and risks also caused by climate change impacts. The activities to be undertaken for implementation of the EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO are primarily related to conservation and restoration of large carnivore populations, transboundary large carnivore management synchronization, public awareness activities to bring these unique species to the public’s attention and restoration of ecosystems in which they play a key role and protect the important habitats, and to enhance their movements. Large carnivores are ecosystems’ keystone species; hence other biodiversity components will also benefit from their conservation. 4PETHABECO project will reach these aims through: 1) a pilot action focused on testing and demonstrating new monitoring practices, with solution that include creation of a common digital platform with digital tools, database and other information relevant for the creation of synergies and harmonization of monitoring procedures in AIR, including enforcement of common citizen science support; 2) jointly developed strategy and action plan for innovative management of large carnivores habitats to improve coexistence; ) a pilot action with demonstrative activities for reduction of human impacts, with solution for community-knowledge reinforcement and innovation development with bottom-up approaches using Living labs methodology /network. Embedded capacity building and communication activities; exchange and implementation of know-how, knowledge flow, best practices transfer will be at the core of stakeholders’ involvement in the project activities. The project 4PETHABECO was defined in the way to maximize the added value of transnational cooperation during the implementation of activities. This includes special tasks introduced to strengthen the transnational dimension and the approach of cooperation of AIR partners in all project activities. The importance of transnational cooperation is also reinforced by greater recognition and visibility of project results with mainstreaming and capitalization activities, an expression of actors from the majority of participating countries who combine efforts and go beyond national interests.

Actual Achievements (EN):

First semester was dedicated to WP1 implementation, with the following activities. The University of Udine, as lead partner of the project, coordinated and followed all the technical, administrative and financial activities of the project. The first semester included the project start up. As regards technical-administrative activities, LP organized the kick-off meeting, a press conference, two online technical meetings with all partners on January 15th and February 17th 2025, and a thematic meeting on communication activities on January 29th. Furthermore, four online dedicated meetings were organized with four project partners (PP6-VHC, PP9-PPNEA, PP10-LZS and PP4-ARCTUROS), and one dedicated in person meeting with PP6-VHC, to discuss aspects related to project activities and reporting. On November 28th and 29th the kick off meeting took place at the University of Udine, Udine. All partners participated in presence, reaching 27 presences in the first day and 25 in the second one, as reported in the attendance list. Aims and objectives of the 4PETHABECO project have been illustrated by going into detail about the various work periods, communication and financial aspects were also discussed. In this context, the project managers and the members of the Steering Committee (SC) and the Advisory Board (AB) were identified for each partner, and the communication working group and communication managers were also defined. On the second day LP1 organized a field trip for all project partners, to observe directly in the field some issues related to wildlife conservation. Irrigation canals, which constitute a dangerous barrier to the movement of wildlife, and a transhumant shepherd were visited, addressing the issue of coexistence between wildlife and human activities together with stakeholders. A meeting minutes was then written and shared with all partners. On December 19th a press conference in hybrid mode took place at the University of Udine. All partners actively participated remotely, while journalists from national and local press, and general public made up of students and stakeholders, were present in person. A total of 19 people were present in person. PPs were involved translating the press release in national languages and sharing it among local media. Following the press release, several articles and contributions were published in local newspapers and printed and online media at local and national level on the launch of the project, project challenges, aims and objectives, in all the involved countries. Guidelines have been drawn up for communication and financial aspects (Communication Plan and Financial handbook). In particular, LP1 set the project's communication strategy by developing a communication document, shared with all the partners whose suggestions were implemented. This document defines in detail the communication strategy within the project, the target audience, the channels to be used for communication, and plans this activity among partners. Project poster and banner have been designed and shared with all partners, to be printed and placed in a public area of each institution. In collaboration with PP5, a roll up has been structured, printed and shared with all partners. Furthermore, again in collaboration with PP5, a project graphic, approved by all partners, was produced, to be used for promotional material that will be purchased in the next period. Templates for communication have been provided to all PPs (templates for slide presentation, documents, reports, agenda, invitation, press release etc.). Each partner published information about the project on its institutional website and social networks (FB, IG, LI). LP1 created official project pages on the main social networks (FB, IG and LI) on which, thanks to the contributions of all the partners, the communication activity has already begun. Moreover, the official project web page on ADRION program web page has been implemented with information about the project, and the main activities carried out during this first period. Project social pages and website links: IG. https://www.instagram.com/4pethabeco/# FB. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571857476344 LI. https://www.linkedin.com/company/4pethabeco-ipa-adrion-project/about/ WS. https://4pethabeco.interreg-ipa-adrion.eu/ Finally, through partner meetings and meetings dedicated to individual partners, the foundations were laid for some of the activities planned for the next periods, such as the identification of stakeholders, organizing of round tables in Italy and Serbia, testing of new monitoring approaches and techniques, setting up the digital platform for exchange of data, and the second PP meeting in Serbia. In particular, the identification of stakeholders has begun and the engagement activity with some of them has begun. During its first implementation year, the 4PETHABECO project has laid the foundations for transnational cooperation across the Adriatic–Ionian Region (AIR) to address the socio-environmental challenges of large carnivore (LC) conservation and coexistence. The project has progressed in line with its planned objectives, activating the cooperation framework among ten partners from eight countries and achieving several preparatory and technical milestones. In the first semester, activities focused on the full implementation of the Activity 1.1 of WP1 (Project Management and Communication). The University of Udine (UNIUD), as Lead Partner (LP), effectively coordinated all technical, administrative, and financial aspects, ensuring smooth project start-up and compliance with programme requirements. The kick-off meeting (organized by UNIUD in Udine, November 28-29, 2024) marked the official launch of 4PETHABECO, gathering all partners to establish the Steering Committee and Advisory Board, coordination, financial and communication management structures at project and partner levels, define communication procedures, plan upcoming activities, and allocate tasks in accordance with the work plan and the Programme’s requirements. As a guideline for the project implementation, LP has developed and provided all PPs with a Financial Handbook and a Project Management manual, which also define partners’ responsibilities for each deliverable, agreed upon by all PPs during SC meetings. An external company has been appointed by LP to support all partners with regards to financial aspects and reporting activities. Extensive communication efforts enhanced the project’s visibility: a hybrid press conference was organized by LP, in Udine, December 19, 2024, attended by all partners remotely, resulting in several articles and publications in print and online media of all eight participating countries; LP has developed and provided all PPs with a Communication Plan, visual identity, and communication templates as guidelines for communication activities; LP has launched dedicated social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) and an official website, which are actively used for dissemination, thanks to the contribution of all partners. In the second semester, activities advanced toward the implementation of Activity 1.2 of WP1 and Activity 2.1 of WP2, focusing on stakeholder mapping, engagement, and participatory processes. Under LP’s coordination, partners identified and classified stakeholders at regional and national levels. This work supported the development of the participatory process methodology by PP5 and PP6, which provides a common approach for inclusive dialogue and engagement. In this context, a survey was developed for local stakeholders, with the support of all PPs, to better understand their perceptions and attitudes and identify concrete and inclusive solutions that promote coexistence with LC. These results will be preparatory to the development of a shared strategy and an action plan for the sustainable management of LC in the AIR. To implement this strategy, a Focus Group has been established, composed of PPs, APs and external experts. Coordinated by PP5 and PP6, with the support of LP, the Focus Group met on August 27 to lay the foundation for harmonized approaches across borders. Two successful roundtables were held – in Italy on 10 June 2025 and in Serbia on 25 August 2025 – bringing together different stakeholder groups, fostering dialogue on human-wildlife coexistence, connectivity, and habitat management, contributing to a deeper understanding of regional challenges and opportunities. The PPs meeting in Serbia, organized by PP2 on 16-17 June, 2025, several other online meetings involving all PPs, SC and AB, and meetings dedicated to working groups or individual partners, coordinated by LP or other activity leaders, strengthened operational coordination, consolidated progress monitoring, and facilitated joint planning of forthcoming activities, such as the realization of the digital platform for data exchange and the implementation of digital tools for citizen science and stakeholders engagement; the realization of the e-guidebook of LC monitoring best practices and the testing of new monitoring approaches and techniques; the organization of the international conference in Albania and the study visit in IPA protected areas; the realization of the strategy and action plan for innovative LC habitat management; the next PPs meeting in Croatia associated with the visit of the green infrastructure; the realization of the technical reports with connectivity maps. These results represent a significant step toward harmonizing monitoring and management practices for LC in the AIR and towards building an inclusive, evidence-based, and cooperative approach to improving human–wildlife coexistence — the core ambition of the 4PETHABECO project.

Project outputs: Demonstration and testing of new LC monitoring techniques (EN)
Digital solutions/tools and platform for exchange of knowledge, data and foster citizen science projects regarding LC monitoring(EN)
Strategy and action plan for innovative large carnivore habitats management to improve coexistence(EN)
Cooperation agreement among PPs and APs for cooperation across borders on LC management and to continue cooperation after the end of the project(EN)
Demonstrative pilot actions on reducing the impact on the domestic animals (EN)
Living labs with digital tools for fostering community-based knowledge and innovation co-creation(EN)

Thematic information

Institutional cooperation and cooperation networks Climate change and biodiversity

Priority: (VI-B_IPA-A_2) Supporting a greener and climate resilient Adriatic-Ionian region

Priority specific objective: RSO2.7. Enhancing protection and preservation of nature, biodiversity and green infrastructure, including in urban areas, and reducing all forms of pollution

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO2 A greener, low-carbon transitioning towards a net zero carbon economy and resilient Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition, green and blue investment, the circular economy, climate change mitigation and adaptation, risk prevention and management, and sustainable urban mobility

Type of intervention: 079 Nature and biodiversity protection, natural heritage and resources, green and blue infrastructure

Partners (11)

Lead Partner: Università degli Studi di Udine

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999899281

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 01071600306 | NA | na (EN)

Department: Dipartimento di Scienze Agro-Alimentari, Ambientali e Animali

Address: Via Palladio , 333100 UDINE, Italy

Department address: via delle Scienze , 33100 UDINE, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.uniud.it

Total budget: EUR 340 778.44

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 289 661.67

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 51 116.77

Lovska zveza Slovenije

Name: Lovska zveza Slovenije

Department: NA

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 891823627

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI23864516 | NA | NA (EN)

Address: Župančičeva, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Department address: Župančičeva, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: https://www.lovska-zveza.si/

Total budget: EUR 138 600.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 117 810.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 20 790.00

Qendra për Ruajtjen dhe Mbrojtjen e Mjedisit Natyror në Shqipëri

Name: Qendra për Ruajtjen dhe Mbrojtjen e Mjedisit Natyror në Shqipëri

Department: NA

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 931768809

Partner’s ID if not PIC: L02211453V | NA | NA (EN)

Address: Janos Hunyadi, 32, 1019 Tirana, Albania

Department address: Janos Hunyadi, 32, 1019 Tirana

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.ppnea.org

Total budget: EUR 87 256.40

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 74 167.94

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 13 088.46

Igea MAK d.o.o.

Name: Igea MAK d.o.o.

Department: NA

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 917886945

Partner’s ID if not PIC: MK4030007645857 | NA | NA (EN)

Address: Orce Nikolov , 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia

Department address: Orce Nikolov , 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Enterprise, except SME

Website: https://www.igea-holding.si/#about

Total budget: EUR 133 585.20

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 113 547.42

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 20 037.78

Centar za zaštitu i proučavanje ptica

Name: Centar za zaštitu i proučavanje ptica

Department: Large carnivore conservation programme

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 928122094

Partner’s ID if not PIC: NA | 02323095 | PIB - Tax Identification Number used in country's tax system for NGOs (EN)

Address: Velje Brdo, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro

Department address: Velje Brdo, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.czip.me

Total budget: EUR 89 490.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 76 066.50

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 13 423.50

Venetian Cluster

Name: Venetian Cluster

Department: NA

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 942750955

Partner’s ID if not PIC: IT03904910241 | NA | NA (EN)

Address: Sestiere San Marco, 30124 Venezia , Italy

Department address: Sestiere San Marco, 30124 Venezia, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Enterprise, except SME

Website: http://www.venetiancluster.eu

Total budget: EUR 219 903.59

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 186 918.05

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 32 985.54

ZNANSTVENO-RAZISKOVALNO SREDIŠČE KOPER

Name: ZNANSTVENO-RAZISKOVALNO SREDIŠČE KOPER

Department: NA

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 913138019

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI38108674 | NA | NA (EN)

Address: Garibaldijeva, 6000 Koper, Slovenia

Department address: Garibaldijeva, 6000 Koper, Slovenia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://www.zrs-kp.si/

Total budget: EUR 239 601.04

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 203 660.88

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 35 940.16

ΑΡΚΤΟΥΡΟΣ

Name: ΑΡΚΤΟΥΡΟΣ

Department: NA

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 934591606

Partner’s ID if not PIC: EL090067590 | NA | NA (EN)

Address: Agias Sofias , 54622 Thessaloniki, Greece

Department address: Agias Sofias , 54622 Thessaloniki, Greece

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.arcturos.gr

Total budget: EUR 166 819.69

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 141 796.73

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 25 022.96

Contractors:

Name: Aria Bousoulenga
VAT registration or tax identification number: 147414276
Name: Zoe Skalkou
VAT registration or tax identification number: 201844169
Name: Panagiotis Stefanou
VAT registration or tax identification number: 103997885
Name: Nikolaos Patsinakidis
VAT registration or tax identification number: 802107347

OIKON d.o.o. – Institut za primijenjenu ekologiju

Name: OIKON d.o.o. – Institut za primijenjenu ekologiju

Department: NA

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 998582118

Partner’s ID if not PIC: HR63588853294 | NA | NA (EN)

Address: Trg senjskih uskoka, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia

Department address: Trg senjskih uskoka, 10000 ZAGREB, Croatia

Legal status: private

Organisation type: SME

Website: https://oikon.hr

Total budget: EUR 142 200.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 120 870.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 21 330.00

Contractors:

Name: DOMATO LD, d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 79014493590
Name: LAGOM, obrt za poslovne usluge
VAT registration or tax identification number: HR91572088406

Sub-Contractors:

Name: DOMATO LD, d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 79014493590
Name: LAGOM, obrt za poslovne usluge
VAT registration or tax identification number: HR91572088406

Univerzitet u Beogradu

Name: Univerzitet u Beogradu

Department: Faculty of Biology,

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 996634067

Partner’s ID if not PIC: RS100043776 | NA | NA (EN)

Address: Studentski trg , 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Department address: Studentski trg, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://www.bio.bg.ac.rs/

Total budget: EUR 114 540.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 97 359.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 17 181.00

Contractors:

Name: Proces Inženjering doo Beograd
VAT registration or tax identification number: 20186313
Name: SUTZKR "TRIM"
VAT registration or tax identification number: 56639993
Name: CMYK KOLIBRI doo Beograd
VAT registration or tax identification number: 17353713
Name: Čiča Gliša doo
VAT registration or tax identification number: 06848796
Name: Online Printing Center d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 112617960

Venetian Cluster

Name: Venetian Cluster

Department: NA

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 942750955

Partner’s ID if not PIC: IT03904910241 | NA | NA (EN)

Address: Sestiere San Marco, 30124 Venezia , Italy

Department address: Sestiere San Marco, 30124 Venezia, Italy

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Enterprise, except SME

Website: http://www.venetiancluster.eu

Total budget: EUR 219 903.59

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 186 918.05

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 85.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 32 985.54

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

Hunters Association of Slovenia

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Partners and Projects info

Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Partners and Projects info

Igea MAK Ltd

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Partners and Projects info

Center for Protection and Research of Birds

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Partners and Projects info

Venetian Cluster

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Partners and Projects info

Science and research Centre Koper

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Partners and Projects info

ARCTUROS – Civil Society for the Protection and Management of Wildlife and the Natural Environment

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Partners and Projects info

OIKON Ltd. – Institute of Applied Ecology

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Partners and Projects info

University of Belgrade

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Partners and Projects info

University of Udine

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Partners and Projects info

Venetian Cluster

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Project acronym: 4PETHABECO

Project ID: IPA-ADRION00367

Project start date: 2024-09-01

Project end date: 2027-08-31

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

NAT2CARE, Interreg Italy-Slovenia (EN) | NAT2CARE, INTERREG V-A ITALIJA-SLOVENIJA 2014-2020,
Duration: 1. 10. 2017 - 31. 3. 2020
Lead partner: The Julian Prealps Nature Park (Ente parco naturale delle Prealpi Giulie)
The main goal of the NAT2CARE project is to improve and maintain the state of biodiversity in the Julian Alps, which are an important natural area both in Slovenia and Italy, and are included in the Natura 2000 network. The main objective of the project is to provide innovative activities of cross-border management of habitat types and animal species, especially those living on both sides of the border. These include medium and large carnivores, ungulates, birds of prey, owls, grouses, corncrake and beetles, such as Alpine Longhorn. Important activities of the project will also be aimed at raising awareness and cooperation with the general public, especially with young people. 4PETHABECO are in synergy with project aims regarding protection of large carnivores. (EN), LIFE WOLFALPS EU (LIFE18 NAT/IT/000972, 01/09/2019 – 30/09/2024) (EN) | LIFE WOLFALPS EU (LIFE18 NAT/IT/000972, 01/09/2019 – 30/09/2024) improving wolf-human coexistence through a participatory approach is the challenge and the main goal of the project, to guarantee the long-term conservation of the transboundary wolf population. The approach proposed by the project WOLFALPS have synergies with the PARTICIPATORY approach proposed by 4PETHABECO (EN), LIFE Bear-Smart Corridors (LIFE20 NAT/NL/001107, 01/10/2021 - 30/09/2026) (EN) | LIFE Bear-Smart Corridors (LIFE20 NAT/NL/001107, 01/10/2021 - 30/09/2026) project is expected to improve the conservation status of the brown bear in Italy (subspecies: Ursus arctos marsicanus) and Greece (Ursus arctos) in six previously identified bear expansion corridors, by developing 18 Bear Smart Communities. By gaining the support of local communities and key stakeholders, the conservation actions will be implemented in both core and corridor areas for bears, with the main objective to develop measures aiming to improve human-bear coexistence. This will allow bears to migrate into and across critical corridors to substantially increase bear range and population. 4PETHABECO aims to enhance connectivity and are in synergy with Bear-smart Corridors. (EN), LIFE Lynx (LIFE16 NAT/SI/000634, 01/07/2017 – 31/03/2024) (EN) | LIFE Lynx (LIFE16 NAT/SI/000634, 01/07/2017 – 31/03/2024) project’s primary objective was rescuing the Dinaric-SE Alpine lynx population from extinction and to preserve it in the long term. Currently, the population is small, isolated, and extremely inbred. It urgently needs reinforcement by introducing additional, healthy animals from another population. The ongoing project will reinforce the Dinaric-SE Alpine population with lynx from the viable source population in the Carpathians, while maintaining high public support. Project partners will collaborate across all EU countries sharing this population to develop and implement a systematic approach to ensure long-term viability of the reinforced population. 4PETHABECO aims to protect habitats of these populations and therefore are in synergy with LIFE LYNX (EN), LIFE ARCPROM (LIFE18 NAT/GR/000768, 01/10/2019 - 30/09/2024) (EN) | LIFE ARCPROM (LIFE18 NAT/GR/000768, 01/10/2019 - 30/09/2024) project will improve brown bear (Ursus arctos) conservation status in Italy and Greece in terms of population levels and trends by achieving sustainable human-bear co-existence status through minimisation of bear-human interference and subsequent conflicts detrimental to the species.4PETHABECO will also deal with coexistence issues through minimisation of conflicts. (EN), LIFE SAFE-CROSSING (LIFE17 NAT/IT/000464, 01/09/2018 - 31/08/2023) (EN) | LIFE SAFE-CROSSING (LIFE17 NAT/IT/000464, 01/09/2018 - 31/08/2023) is dealing with issue of large carnivores threatened by road infrastructure across Europe, due to direct mortality caused by collisions with vehicles and the barrier effect restricting the movement of populations. The main objective of the project is to demonstrate best practices that can be used to reduce the negative impacts of road infrastructure on large carnivores across Europe. 4PETHABECO will also contribute to reduce impacts of habitats fragmentation in synergy with SAFE CROSSING project. (EN), Large Carnivore Initiative for Europe (LCIE) (EN) | Large Carnivore Initiative for Europe (LCIE) - is a Thematic Specialist Group within the Species Survival Commission of the IUCN International Union for Nature Conservation. Since its creation in 1995 LCIE has worked towards the achievement of a vision “To maintain and restore, in coexistence with people, viable populations of large carnivores as an integral part of ecosystems and landscapes across Europe”. Series of policy support statements have been made with the support of LCIE over the last 10 years, e.g. the principles for population level management that were developed in 2008. Some of 4PETHABECO PPs experts are active in LCIE and can foster synergies. (EN), IUCN, International Union for Conservation of Nature (EN) | IUCN, International Union for Conservation of Nature, in particular The Nature 2030 IUCN Programme that ensures alignment with United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as well as the post-2020 global biodiversity framework. The Programme delivers concrete and tangible positive impacts to People, Land, Water, Oceans and Climate using the following five pathways to transformative change: Recognise, Retain, Restore, Resource, Reconnect. It includes: (i) the application of available technology and data, including innovative uses; (ii) the power and outreach of communication, education and public awareness; and (iii) the leverage of investment and sustainable financing. Some of 4PETHABECO PPs experts are active in IUCN programs, groups and indicatives and can foster synergies. (EN), FAO (EN) | FAO forestry, in particular action that promote Sustainable wildlife management (SWM) within protected areas and across all habitats as a key element in achieving sustained nutrition and income for rural populations and indigenous people, and achieving its goal of zero hunger. As well as safeguarding human and environmental health SWM contributes to the reduction of rural poverty and the improvement of livelihoods. Through the Wildlife and Protected Areas Management Programme, FAO is actively involved in supporting Member countries to: develop innovative mechanisms to reduce unsustainable hunting practices, promote the sustainable use and management of wild meat, provide technical assistance and strengthen capacities to deal with human wildlife conflicts, enhance cross-border collaboration and strengthen the governance of protected areas, design and implement relevant field projects and initiatives. In 4PETHABECO is involved a national hunter association that can foster synergies. (EN), UNEP (EN) | UNEP Nature action to protect and restore ecosystems and the goods and services they provide. The UNEP Europe main goal is to provide guidance to national governments at various levels, and to take part in the dialogue on environmental issues between governmental authorities, civil society, the private sector and other stakeholders. Closer cooperation between the main actors in the region, implement projects and provide scientific and legal expertise on challenges facing Europe’s environment are encouraged. Awareness-raising initiatives and campaigns, giving Europeans the chance to act towards a greener region while improving the quality of their lives are also undertaken. They also lead an Issue-Based Coalition (IBC) on Environment and Climate Change. IBCs see UN agencies coordinate their support to governments towards the Sustainable Development Goals. The Geneva Environment Network (GEN) plays a crucial role in UNEP work. GEN is a partnership of more than 75 organizations, including UN offices and programmes, NGOs, academic institutions and local authorities located in Geneva and active in the fields of environment and sustainable development. Since 1999, the GEN Secretariat – led by UN Environment and supported by the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment – has actively promoted increased cooperation and networking among its members by organising and hosting numerous dialogues and other events. The network is a resource for any sector wanting to learn about the environment, green its economy etc. Some of 4PETHABECO PPs experts are active in UNEP networks, groups and indicatives and can foster synergies. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 1 672 774.36

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 421 858.19

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 85.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

Kick off meeting minutes, attendance list and photos
Press conference
Project Management, with quality guidelines, and Financial Handbook
Establishment document of Steering Committee (SC) and Advisory Board (AB)
Communication strategy, detailed COM plan and project promotional materials
Articles and contribution in media about project aims and objectives
Social media and official project web page on ADRION program webpage
List of stakeholders and LC monitoring round tables for stakeholder engagement (2)
E-guidebook of LC monitoring best practices in AIR
Training in monitoring, analysing and reporting of LC data with demonstration in practice (report)
Report regarding tested new technologies in IPA countries
Digital stakeholders' platform with tools for exchange of data, knowledge and information inside AIR
Digital tools for citizen science
Articles published on online and printed media and online workshops
Partner meeting with SC and AB meetings and COM evaluation report in 2nd period
Participatory process methodology and focus group establishment with online meetings minutes
International conference regarding LC habitats management in AIR
Strategy and action plan for innovative LC habitats management to improve coexistence
Cooperation agreement among PPs/APs and letters of support of the Strategy
Partner meeting with SC and AB meetings and COM evaluation report for 3rd period
Summer schools
Workshops outdoor/indoor for secondary schools pupils and their educators
Study visits in IPA protected area important for LC protection
Study visits in ERDF Protected area important for LC protection
Webinars (4)
Technical reports with connectivity maps for different LC species
Recommendation for hunting, forests habitats enlargement and connectivity
Guidelines for Spatial planners on LC habitats conservation and CC adaptation measures in EUSAIR
Visit at the green infrastructures to asses connectivity issues
Partner meeting with SC and AB meetings and COM evaluation report for 4th period
Report: AIR Living Labs to foster eco-connectivity of LC habitats
“LC coexistence with humans” and "LC and ecological connectivity” - storytelling videos
Demonstrative pilot actions to reduce human impacts and enhance coexistence (report)
Partner meeting with SC and AB meetings with COM evaluation report for 5th period
Self-evaluation report with SWOT analyses and final COM evaluation report
Guidelines for capitalization, mainstreaming of result and strategy for post-project communication
Scientific and technical publications
Final conference for stakeholders with press conference and final partner meeting, SC and AB meeting
Final project e-publication

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyAdriaticIonianRegion The general objective of the EUSAIR is to promote sustainable economic and social prosperity in the region by: creating growth and jobs; improving the region’s attractiveness, competitiveness and connectivity; preserving the environment; and ensuring healthy and balanced marine and coastal ecosystems. The overall objective of the EUSAIR pillar 3. ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY which is coordinated by Slovenia and Bosna and Herzegovina, is to address the issue of environmental quality, with respect to marine, coastal and terrestrial ecosystems in the Region. Environmental quality is essential for underpinning human activities in the Region and for ensuring economic and social well-being for its peoples. The pillar will deal with the environmental issues that can only be adequately tackled through cooperation at the level and scale of the macro-region.
Two topics are identified as pivotal in relation to environmental quality in the Adriatic-Ionian Region:Topic 1 - The marine environment. Topic 2 - Transnational terrestrial habitats and biodiversity. 4PETHABECO is directly connected to EUSAIR FLAGSHIP PET HAB ECO (Protection and enhancement of natural terrestrial habitats and ecosystems (acronym PET HAB ECO), one of the flagships of EUSAIR Pillar 3. The flagship PET HAB ECO will try to establish protection and enhancement of natural terrestrial habitats and ecosystems important for large carnivores, with particular attention to the ecological connectivity of blue and green corridors/infrastructure. The flagship overall objective is to improve the resilience of large carnivores’ populations at transnational level in a territory characterized by human dominated or fragmented ecosystems in the face of environmental threats and risks, also caused by climate change impacts. Therefore, 4PETHABECO will relevantly support implementation of PET HAB ECO flagship.
EuropeanGreenDeal The EU member states are obliged to fulfil the commitments from the Paris Agreement by 2050. The European Green Deal (2019) is a strategy and a set of political initiatives that should guide the EU towards a green transition and bring it to the ultimate goal of climate neutrality by 2050. It calls for a holistic and cross-sectoral approach, where all relevant policy areas contribute to the ultimate climate AND ENVIRONMENTAL goal. The package includes initiatives that regulate the areas of climate, environment, energy, transport, industry, agriculture and sustainable finance, all of which are closely related. This package of Green Deal policies also includes the EU Biodiversity strategy for 2030". The EU Commission has initiated a range of measures to conserve large carnivores in the EU. The recovery of large carnivores in the EU also contributes to the objectives of the European Green Deal’s EU biodiversity strategy for 2030. This is the EU’s plan to put biodiversity on the path to recovery by 2030. It contains specific commitments and actions to protect nature and reverse the degradation of ecosystems, building on existing nature laws. The 4PETHABECO project pursues the objectives of the EU Green deal and EU biodiversity strategy. The EU’s biodiversity strategy for 2030 is a comprehensive, ambitious and long-term plan to protect nature and reverse the degradation of ecosystems. The strategy contains specific commitments and actions to be delivered by 2030, as establishing a larger EU-wide network of protected areas on land and at sea and enlarging of existing Natura 2000 areas, with strict protection for areas of very high biodiversity and climate value. 4PETHABECO will contribute to pose cooperation bases for protection of LC, restoration of green infrastructure relevant for large carnivores AIR, that include the network of Natura 2000 areas, enhancement of cultural, social and ecological connectivity.
Other The Council of Europe’s 1979 Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention), a binding international legal instrument in the field of nature conservation, and the European Union (EU) 1992 Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (Habitats Directive) posed bases for the conservation of large carnivores in the AIR as Balkan lynx (Lynx lynx balcanicus), brown bear (Ursus arctos) and wolf (Canis lupus). The Vision for the Bern Convention for the period to 2030 “Healthy nature for healthy people” and the accompanying Strategic Plan for the Convention for the period to 2030 sets out the more detailed objectives that support this vision: Goal 1: The area, connectivity, integrity and resilience of natural and semi-natural ecosystems is increased, including through protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures covering at least 30% of the land and of the sea areas; Goal 2: The conservation status of threatened species is improved, the abundance of native species has increased, and human-induced extinctions have been halted; Goal 3: The contributions of wild flora and fauna and their natural habitats to a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment are valued, maintained and enhanced; Goal 4: Sufficient resources are available and are used efficiently to achieve all goals and targets in the Plan. 4PETHABECO is linked to Habitat Directive and Bern Convention regarding the protection of large carnivores and their habitats. The EMERALD and NATURA 2000 networks are crucial in the effort to comply to EU and international obligations related to the protection of biological diversity, genetic resources, species, and ecosystems, including large carnivores’ habitats. 4PETHABECO will particular focus on green infrastructure restoration for assuring eco-connectivity of LC habitats inside these networks.
Other Sustainable management of terrestrial ecosystems, in particular forests and related species, are included in the UN Sustainable Development Goals (Goal 15: “Life on land: Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss”). In particular next targets are addressed: 15.5 “Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity and, by 2020, protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species”, 15.6 “Promote fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources and promote appropriate access to such resources, as internationally agreed” 15.9 “By 2020, integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into national and local planning, development processes, poverty reduction strategies and accounts”, 15.A “Mobilize and significantly increase financial resources from all sources to conserve and sustainably use biodiversity and ecosystems”. All activities of the 4PETHABECO project are ultimately contributing to these targets, by promoting concrete cooperation actions towards environmentally sustainable planning and management LC habitats in AIR.
Other 4PETHABECO is linked as well to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) opened for signature in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, and entering into force in December 1993. The CBD is an international treaty for the conservation of biodiversity, the sustainable use of the components of biodiversity and the equitable sharing of the benefits derived from the use of genetic resources. With 196 Parties, the CBD has near universal participation among countries. The CBD seeks to address all threats to biodiversity and ecosystem services, including threats from climate change, through scientific assessments, the development of tools, incentives and processes, the transfer of technologies and good practices and the full and active involvement of relevant stakeholders including indigenous peoples and local communities, youth, women, NGOs, sub-national actors and the business community.
Other 4PETHABECO is linked to United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), in particular Nature action, that believes in the power of integrated ecosystem management, which aims to sustain ecosystems to meet both ecological and human needs. This approach is responsive to new information and changing requirements, and it integrates social, environmental and economic perspectives. Integrated ecosystem management aims to sustain ecosystems to meet both ecological and human needs. Ecosystem management is responsive to changing needs and new information. It promotes a shared vision of desired outcomes by integrating social, environmental and economic perspectives into managing our ecological foundation.

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 084 - Pilot actions developed jointly and implemented in projects, Measurement unit:
RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 083 - Strategies and action plans jointly developed, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 084 - Organisations cooperating across borders after project completion, Measurement unit:
RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:
RCR 079 - Joint strategies and action plans taken up by organisations, Measurement unit:

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSAIR

EUSAIR Priority (Policy) area / Horizontal action:

EUSAIR Degree of compliance:

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B IPA Adriatic-Ionian

Latest month of project-partner-call data publication

2026-01

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

70 / 70 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

653 / 653 (100%)

Notes on the data

Languages

Contact Form

Strengthening cooperation to address socio-environmental challenges of EUSAIR flagship PET HAB ECO

Description

Thematic information

Partners (11)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Disclaimer