October the 3th, 2024
Training and capacity building, key for managing Natura 2000 marine sites in Spain
Four training programs are underway, 21 training sessions, 190 people already involved with the goal of reaching 250
Training and capacity building are key elements for decision-making within the management framework of Natura 2000 marine sites. They are also crucial to increase the knowledge and awareness of other actors involved in this network’s conservation, enjoyment and sustainable use.
MITECO’s Biodiversity Foundation is currently implementing four training programs. These programs focus on education and awareness-raising, management of environmental impacts, principles of governance as applied to the marine regulations of the Natura 2000 Network, and the foundations of the Natura 2000 Network.
These programmes are based on the Training Strategy for managers and main users of marine protected areas of the Natura 2000 Network designed within the framework of the LIFE INTEMARES project, also coordinated by the Biodiversity Foundation, and one of the projects working in a network together with LIFE A-MAR NATURA2000.
This strategy outlines the guidelines for training activities to help competent administrations make better decisions. It also aims to ensure that the uses and activities in protected areas align with a responsible and sustainable economy.
To achieve our objectives, the Capacity Building Strategy includes an Action Plan that covers six main areas of interest for all marine districts. These areas integrate 21 capacity-building programs. In Spain, the capacity-building action of the LIFE A-MAR NATURA2000 project includes the proposed programs, with priority given to training needs and gaps in the Mediterranean region, and taking into account the objectives of this action.
Of the 250 participants in Spain expected to be reached by the end of the action’s implementation, the project has already reached 190 participants from three different sectors: education, whale-watching companies, as well as law enforcement and maritime surveillance. Training activities will continue, addressing new programmes in addition to the four already implemented so far. It is also expected to organise more than 12 sessions until the end of the project.
Thanks to the implementation of this tool, the LIFE A-MAR NATURA2000 project aims to promote capacity building to assist competent bodies in the efficient management of the marine areas of the Natura 2000 Network, as well as to foster inter-administrative cooperation and the creation of spaces for joint dialogue on the need and importance of conserving marine ecosystems.
The training actions of the Marine Natura 2000 Network Training Plan are part of the actions foreseen in the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR), financed by the European Union-NexGenerationEU.