OUT NOW: Practical Guidelines for Transboundary Protected Area Managers in Europe
This new document for Transboundary Protected Area Managers dives into best practice examples from the EUROPARC Transboundary Programme Network. Get inspired!
About the document
Transboundary Areas (TBAs) represent some of the most ecologically significant and culturally rich landscapes in the world. Spanning national borders, these regions demand collaborative efforts to address shared environmental, social, and economic challenges.
Our Practical Guidelines For Transboundary Protected Area Managers In Europe document, available below, dives into the achievements of EUROPARC-certified Transboundary Areas, exploring how cross-border cooperation can achieve tangible results for conservation, governance, tourism, and more. By analysing diverse case studies, this resource highlights the innovative strategies that have been successfully implemented in Transboundary Areas across Europe.
Key themes
The document is organised around several core themes, including:
- Conservation: Strategies for protecting biodiversity and restoring ecosystems across borders.
- Tourism: Promoting sustainable tourism initiatives that benefit local communities while preserving natural and cultural heritage.
- Policy and Governance: Strengthening transboundary partnerships to address shared management challenges.
- Climate Change: Developing adaptive approaches to mitigate and manage the effects of a changing climate.
- Culture, Youth, and Digital Innovation: Empowering communities and the next generation through education, technology, and cultural exchange.
While the themes provide a structured approach, the reality of managing TBAs shows how deeply intertwined these areas are. Conservation intersects with climate adaptation; tourism relies on cultural preservation; and governance links all efforts together into a cohesive strategy.
Lessons for Transboundary Area Managers
The examples in the document demonstrate that success lies in fostering collaboration, leveraging innovative tools, and engaging stakeholders at all levels. From shared maps and citizen science initiatives to environmental education programmes and cross-border policy frameworks, these projects highlight the transformative power of partnership.
For TBA managers and conservationists worldwide, this document offers a roadmap to adapt and replicate successful strategies, ensuring these unique regions thrive for generations to come.
Why it matters
Transboundary areas transcend political boundaries, serving as vital reminders of our shared responsibility to protect the planet. By learning from the experiences of EUROPARC-certified Transboundary Areas, we can strengthen efforts to build resilient ecosystems, support local communities, and promote a sustainable future for all.
Check the full guideline document below. Let’s collaborate to safeguard our shared natural heritage!
Practical Guidelines for Transboundary Area Managers in Europe (2024)