Strengthening forest connectivity across the Balkan–Carpathian–Dinaric region
On 27–28 May 2026, the final regional conference of the ForestConnect project, “Connecting Nature”, took place in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, bringing together researchers, practitioners, protected area managers, NGOs, authorities and regional partners committed to advancing ecological connectivity and climate-resilient forest management.
The conference provided an important platform to share the key outcomes of the ForestConnect project, exchange knowledge and practical experience, and discuss how innovative transnational solutions can support ecological corridors, protected areas and large carnivore conservation across the Carpathian, Dinaric and Balkan Mountains.
The Secretariat of the Carpathian Convention was pleased to contribute to the discussions and relevant presentations, including the panel on Climate-Smart Ecological Connectivity, which highlighted the importance of cross-border cooperation, regional governance and policy alignment in ensuring resilient and connected landscapes for both nature and people.
A central outcome of the ForestConnect project is the Strategic Action Plan (SAP) on Adaptation Actions and Climate Resilience-Enhancing Forest Management Practices for Protected Areas. The Strategic Action Plan provides concrete transnational guidance for improving ecological corridors and habitats for the migration of large carnivores, while supporting climate-resilient forest management and nature restoration efforts.
The Secretariat warmly congratulates the FH Kärnten – Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (CUAS), WWF Romania, Universitatea De Stiinte Agronomice Si Medicina Veterinara Bucuresti Cluj-Napoca and the entire ForestConnect consortium on the successful completion of the project and the publication of SAP.
We encourage all partners, networks, and stakeholders to read, share, and promote the Strategic Action Plan within their professional communities and institutional channels.
Read the Strategic Action Plan: http://www.carpathianconvention.org/…/ForestConnect_SAP…
