At EUROPARC, we take great pride in the dedication and passion of our members who work tirelessly to protect and preserve Europe’s natural heritage. This year, we are thrilled to recognise and celebrate those who have been part of our network for many years, reflecting their unwavering commitment to conservation across the continent.

We are especially proud to award the Decader Award to those who have been with us for 10, 20, 30, and even 40 years. These milestones represent decades of hard work, collaboration, and shared achievements that have shaped our collective vision for a more sustainable and harmonious future.

In 2024, we honour the following exceptional members:

40 years of partnership:

• Association of German Nature Parks (Germany)

30 years of dedication:

• Thuringian Ministry of Environment, Energy, and Conservation (Germany)
• Xunta de Galicia (Spain)
• Foundation Wildnispark Zürich (Switzerland)
• Diputación de Barcelona (Spain)
• Mercantour National Park (France)
• Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Authority (Romania)
• Government Agency Sachsenforst, Biosphere Reserve Oberlausitzer Heide and Teichlandschaft (Germany)
• Gauja National Park (Latvia)
• State Office of Environment (Germany)
• Administration of Asturia, Ministry for Agriculture, Department of Mountains and Environment (Spain)
• Ecrins National Park (France)
• Harz National Park (Germany)

20 years of membership:

• Nature Conservation Agency (Latvia)
• Manfred-Hermsen Foundation (Germany)
• Eifel National Park Forestry Office (Germany)
• Brière Regional Nature Park (France)

10 years of commitment:

• Duna-Ipoly National Park Directorate (Hungary)
• Biebrza National Park (Poland)
• Vätsäri Wilderness Area, Metsähallitus Parks & Wildlife Finland (Finland)
• Alto Minho Intermunicipal Community (CIM Alto Minho) (Portugal)
• Claire Cave (Ireland)

Each of these organisations has shown remarkable perseverance in safeguarding Europe’s rich biodiversity, ensuring that our natural landscapes are protected for future generations to enjoy. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all recipients and thank them for their continuous support and invaluable contributions.

We look forward to many more years of collaboration and shared success as we continue our journey together in the preservation of Europe’s natural heritage.

The 13th edition of the ECST Network Meeting brought together over 100 people from 19 countries in Westport, Mayo County, Ireland from 29 – 31 October, 2024.

Networking in the Wild West of Ireland

Discover the event in pictures:

One year after the last network meeting, European Charter for Sustainable Tourism (ECST) network members, as well as other participants interested in Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas, had the chance to enjoy a 3-day exchange in the ‘Wild West of Ireland’. The event focussed on visitor management in Protected Areas and provided participants with the chance to discover the West Coast of Ireland, with visits to the beautiful Connemara and Wild Nephin National Parks.

There was a numerous Irish delegation, issued from the National Parks and Wildlife Service, co-organisers of the event, and other Irish nature conservation entities, interested in learning more about sustainble tourism management in Protected Areas. Ireland is new to the ECST in Protected Areas. The Burren NP is the first Irish Park already registered to become part of the programme in 2025.

Through this event, Ireland took a further, important step towards a more sustainable form of tourism. Learn more on the dedicated page on our website:

To the ECST meeting 2024 page!

Introduction to Leave No Trace Ireland: A Newcomer to EUROPARC

EUROPARC is thrilled to welcome Leave No Trace Ireland as a new member of its network. This organisation is dedicated to promoting responsible outdoor recreation while protecting the environment. Since its launch in 2004, Leave No Trace Ireland has played a crucial role in environmental stewardship, empowering individuals and communities to reduce their impact on nature through education, research, and partnerships.

Who is Leave No Trace Ireland?

Leave No Trace Ireland aims to minimise human impact on natural landscapes and cultural heritage through education, advocacy, and community involvement. Their mission is to preserve Ireland’s natural beauty and rich history for future generations by encouraging responsible outdoor behaviour.

Key Goals and Activities of Leave No Trace Ireland

1. Education and Training

Leave No Trace Ireland offers a variety of educational programmes to promote sustainable outdoor practices. Through workshops, courses, and resources aimed at individuals, schools, and organisations, they equip people with the tools needed to enjoy the outdoors responsibly.

2. Research

Research is a cornerstone of Leave No Trace Ireland’s mission. The organisation studies the effects of outdoor activities on the environment and cultural sites. These findings shape effective conservation strategies and guidelines.

3. Outreach and Advocacy

The organisation collaborates with government bodies, local authorities, and environmental organisations to advocate for policies that support sustainable outdoor recreation. Their outreach efforts also raise public awareness about environmental responsibility.

4. Publications and Resources

To extend their reach, Leave No Trace Ireland creates guides, brochures, and online content. These materials help the public and organisations understand how to minimise their environmental impact during outdoor activities.

5. Community Engagement

Community involvement is vital to Leave No Trace Ireland’s approach. The organisation partners with local groups for clean-up events, restoration projects, and awareness campaigns, fostering stewardship at the grassroots level.

Volunteers on a clean up hike taking a break to take part in the Breakdown Game, (c) Leave No Trace

6. Cultural Heritage Conservation

The organisation emphasises protecting cultural heritage sites. They offer guidelines for engaging in outdoor activities responsibly near historical locations, ensuring these culturally significant areas are preserved for future generations.

7. Partnerships

Collaboration is key to Leave No Trace Ireland’s success. The organisation works with various stakeholders, including environmental NGOs, recreation groups, educational institutions, and government agencies. These partnerships help amplify their impact and spread the Leave No Trace message.

A Vision for the Future

Through these activities, Leave No Trace Ireland seeks to foster a culture of respect for the environment and cultural heritage. By educating the public, advocating for sustainable practices, and engaging communities, they align outdoor recreation with conservation efforts. As a new member of EUROPARC, they look forward to collaborating with others to protect Europe’s natural and cultural landscapes for future generations.

1. What unique experiences or expertise does your organisation bring that could contribute to the collective goals of the EUROPARC network?

Leave No Trace Ireland offers valuable expertise in environmental education, sustainable outdoor practices, and community engagement. Our training programmes and resources empower individuals and communities to reduce their environmental footprint. By building partnerships with government bodies, NGOs, and local communities, we strengthen conservation efforts. Our experience promoting Leave No Trace principles across Ireland aligns perfectly with the goals of the EUROPARC network.

2. How do you envisage collaborating with other EUROPARC members to enhance conservation and sustainable tourism efforts across Europe?

We plan to collaborate with EUROPARC members by sharing our expertise in sustainable outdoor practices and environmental education. Together, we can develop joint training programmes and initiatives that promote responsible recreation. By exchanging best practices and success stories, we aim to address shared challenges and contribute to the network’s conservation and sustainable tourism goals across Europe.

3. Could you share any upcoming projects or initiatives your organisation is planning that might benefit from the expertise or support of the EUROPARC network?

Leave No Trace Ireland is excited to partner on the CONNECT project, where EUROPARC’s expertise in sustainable tourism will be crucial. This project focuses on enhancing outdoor sustainability practices across Europe.