By 2030, the European Commission wants to have planted 3 billion trees to combat climate change, improve air quality and biodiversity. In this article, Baptiste Hottekiet, Director of Parc Natural du Pays des Collines argues that Europe’s Nature Regional Landscape Parks are essential partners in reaching this goal. This article is also available in French here.

Article written by Baptiste Hottekiet, Director of Parc Naturel du Pays des Collines and member of EUROPARC’s Nature Regional Landscape Parks Taks Force.

3 billion trees: Europe’s Nature Regional Landscape Parks are essential stakeholders!

Thanks to a deep knowledge of their territories and the living forces that inhabit them, the Nature Regional Landscape (NRL) Parks of Europe have the capacity to play a major role in the sustainable development of their territories. In this context, numerous planting actions are regularly organized and each year several thousand trees are planted. Europe’s NRL Parks can thus actively contribute to the European Commission’s objective of planting 3 billion trees by 2030. Through this article, we wish to encourage not only the NRL Parks of Europe to provide information on the trees they have planted, but also encourage all Parks, Protected Areas and individuals to plant their trees and track it through the official website here.

The countless benefits of trees

We no longer need to demonstrate the many positive impacts that trees have on our environment and our well-being. Necessary for the construction of a functional ecological network, they also play a role in the fight against climate change, they improve water and air quality, support biodiversity and, as such, preserve our health. More than ever, tree plantings are essential as one of the actions (but not the only one!) necessary for the resilience of our territories.

There are numerous examples of planting projects carried out by the NRL Parks of Europe. Discover one example below!

Wallonia tree planting

Tree planting actions in Wallonia

The project “A Tree for Picardy Wallonia” aims to mobilize stakeholders from Picardy Wallonia in Belgium to together plant 350,000 trees and shrubs between 2015 and 2025. To achieve this ambitios goal, seedling distribution operations, called “ARBRENKIT”, were organized. This is the third operation of this type. Funded by Wallonia as part of its “Yes, We Plant” programme, the project is supported by the Pays des Collines Natural Park, the Plaines de l’Escaut Natural Park and the non-profit organization Wapi 2040, in Belgium. This large-scale greening project extends over the whole of Picardy Wallonia (1,377 km2).

The principle? Distribute free hedge and small fruit kits, tall fruit trees and large trees to six target audiences: farmers, individuals, schools, businesses, associations and municipalities. Furthermore, the innitiative offers free technical support to ensure effecient planting. There are five different hedge kits to pick from: forager canteens, bird restaurant, easy fence, crop assistant, and fodder. This latest hedge kit consists of species intended to form a hedge which will be regularly eaten by livestock in summer when the meadows produce less grass. Of course, the objective is to recreate ecological connection, but also to develop the food resilience of Picardy Wallonia. Thousands of tall fruit trees have been planted, or will be planted soon. As a result, several thousand kilos of fruit will be used either fresh or processed into juice, compote, syrup, etc., within a couple of years.

A successful initiative!

Tree planting in Pays des Collines and Plaines de L’Escaut Natural Parks

Where are we today in the results? With the last distribution of seedlings which took place on December 14, 2024, more than 395,000 trees and shrubs were distributed. The objective is therefore exceeded by around 13%, one year ahead of schedule! The prospects for progress in achieving the objectives look promising.

So, how does this all contribute to the goal of the European Commission? In December 2022, Wallonia became the first region to contribute to this European objective by providing the European Commission with a certificate of 2,653,884 trees planted in Wallonia. At that time, it was the largest contribution made by a Region. At the Belgian level, more than 4,000,000 trees have been added to the European meter. More information can be found here and here.

At the time of writing, 22,677,956 trees (0.755% of the target of 3 billion) have been registered in Europe.

Of course, this is a positive, European scale initiative that combines community engagement with nature restoration activities. However, this type of large-scale planting action should not overshadow other environmental preservation initiatives that are extremely important and have a positive effect on the climate. The preservation of ecosystems—especially existing forests and peat bogs—the fight against illegal logging and the deforestation of ancestral forests, as well as critical reflection on our production and consumption of goods, services, and energy, must not be neglected or diminished simply because we plant trees. Now more than ever, a combination of actions and a holistic approach should be central to our efforts.

EUROPARC thanks Baptiste for providing this article for our website.

IVY is the Interreg Youth Volunteer initiative. The volunteer will support the Interreg project “GREENHEALTH – Sustainable Protected Areas as a key value for human well-being“, under the Programme “Interreg Europe”.

The objective of the Interreg project “GREENHEALTH” is to improve regional public policies and to create the right regional contexts to maximize the links between Protected Areas, health and well-being.

The volunteer will be carrying out the following tasks and activities:

The tasks and activities for the volunteer would include:

• Support in the development and sharing of a questionnaire to be filled in by partners on Good Practices to be transferred;
• Support in the organisation and technical back-up of a virtual exchange meeting (March-April 2025);
• Support the identification of online mentoring process tools;
• Support in the planning and realisation of an inter-regional learning workshop in Sweden (May 2025);
• Support with communication activities, as posting on social media channels and website, updating the library folder, prepare the project brochure, update the project presentation (with animation), video-editing, etc;
• Prepare updates for Steering Committee meetings;
• Revise the policy instrument page, coordinating with project partners to make it more graphic.

The volunteer will be fully part of the GREENHEALTH project consortium as well as integral part of the Communication and Capacity building unit of EUROPARC Directorate.

Other information:

The volunteer would be working in the EUROPARC Headquarters in Regensburg, for 35 hours a week.

Financial support of: 35 euros per day (week-end and holidays included).

Location: Regensburg, Germany.

Start and duration: February, for 6 months.

Languages*: English (C1).

*Please be aware that the languages mentioned are the minimum level of command required.

Go to the website of the Interreg Project here.

Fundația Conservation Carpathia, one of Romania’s leading environmental organisations, has officially become a member of the EUROPARC Federation. As Europe’s foremost network of Protected Areas, this partnership represents a milestone in Fundația Conservation Carpathia’s mission to restore and safeguard the Carpathian Mountains’ pristine ecosystems. Moreover, it strengthens the alignment of Fundația Conservation Carpathia’s efforts with Europe’s most respected conservation initiatives.

A Vision for European Wilderness

Since its founding in 2009, Fundația Conservation Carpathia has pioneered large-scale conservation in the Southern Carpathians, often called Europe’s “last great wilderness.” The organisation aims to create a European Yellowstone in the Făgăraș Mountains, preserving biodiversity while simultaneously promoting sustainable development for local communities.

By joining EUROPARC, Fundația Conservation Carpathia becomes part of a broader European network that shares its vision of connecting people, nature, and sustainable practices.

Restoring Nature: FCC’s Key Initiatives

Fundația Conservation Carpathia

1. Large-Scale Land Conservation

Fundația Conservation Carpathia manages over 27,000 hectares of forests and meadows, transforming them into Protected Areas where nature can regenerate. This strategy directly addresses deforestation and habitat fragmentation, creating safe havens for endangered species.

2. Rewilding Efforts

The foundation has implemented various rewilding projects to restore ecological balance. Notable achievements include:

• Reintroducing European bison, bringing back an iconic species after centuries of absence.
• Beaver recovery programmes, which enhance wetland habitats.
• Monitoring apex predators like wolves, bears, and lynxes to ensure ecosystem health.

3. Forest Restoration

To tackle illegal logging and land degradation, Fundația Conservation Carpathia has launched extensive reforestation initiatives. These projects focus on planting native tree species and fostering natural forest regeneration, thereby rebuilding one of Europe’s vital carbon sinks.

4. Advocating for the Făgăraș Mountains National Park

Fundația Conservation Carpathia is championing the creation of a national park in the Făgăraș Mountains. This endeavour aims to protect the region’s exceptional biodiversity and cultural heritage while serving as a model for conservation-based tourism.

Collaborating with Communities

Central to Fundația Conservation Carpathia’s mission is ensuring that local communities benefit from conservation efforts. The organisation supports sustainable livelihoods by:

• Promoting eco-tourism initiatives that drive economic growth.
• Funding educational programmes to raise environmental awareness.
• Encouraging sustainable farming and crafts as alternatives to deforestation.

How Does FCC Leverage Technology, Science, or Local Knowledge to Drive Its Conservation Efforts?

Fundația Conservation Carpathia integrates modern technology, scientific research, and local expertise to strengthen its conservation activities.

Technology:

• Camera traps and audio recording devices track wildlife activity efficiently.
• Digital tools streamline operations, while Fundația Conservation Carpathia’s facilities use modern technology to enhance productivity.

Science:

• The organisation conducts species studies and population monitoring to collect valuable ecological data.
• Partnerships with academic institutions, like the University of Ljubljana, enable advanced genetic analysis of Carpathian wildlife.

Local Knowledge:

• Fundația Conservation Carpathia maintains regular engagement with local communities, incorporating their insights into conservation plans. This ensures regional needs and knowledge are considered.

How Does Fundația Conservation Carpathia Plan to Share Its Results Within the EUROPARC Community?

Fundația Conservation Carpathia aims to share its achievements and insights through several channels:

Participating in Events:

• The foundation will attend workshops, conferences, and other EUROPARC events to present its findings.
• Fundația Conservation Carpathia also plans to host its own events to exchange knowledge and best practices.

Digital Platforms:

• Fundația Conservation Carpathia’s social media channels, website, and monthly newsletter provide accessible updates.
• These platforms enable EUROPARC members and the public to stay informed about Fundația Conservation Carpathia’s work.

By leveraging these strategies, Fundația Conservation Carpathia will actively contribute to EUROPARC’s mission and foster collaboration across Europe’s conservation community.

Fundația Conservation Carpathia

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.