From Science to Action: Strategic Planning for the Trans-European Nature Network (TEN-N)
On 20-21 January 2026, the NaturaConnect project brought together experts, policymakers and practitioners in Brussels for a 1.5-day in-person event dedicated to advancing the Trans-European Nature Network (TEN-N).
The event focused on how scientific evidence can be translated into practical strategies to support the delivery of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the EU Nature Restoration Regulation. Discussions highlighted the vital role of protected and conserved areas in addressing biodiversity loss, climate change and land degradation – and, crucially, the need to ensure these areas are coherent, resilient and well connected across borders.
Across presentations and participatory exercises, participants:
- Explored key NaturaConnect scientific analyses on protected areas and pan-European corridor design
- Compared connectivity and protected area expansion priorities at different scales – EU, national and sub-national
- Contributed to shaping recommendations for TEN-N implementation, spanning planning, governance and enabling conditions across scales
The exchanges over both days provided valuable input for the final TEN-N implementation strategy, reinforcing the importance of combining sound science, effective policy frameworks and collaborative approaches across Europe.
Workshop Report Now Available: Insights and Key Takeaways from Brussels
We are pleased to share with you the Workshop Report, which captures summaries from the presentations and the feedback provided during the participatory sessions. It also offers a short overview of the project’s progress, main messages, and how feedback from the participants will be incorporated into our research. Explore the Report and revisit the inspiring exchanges that took place during the participatory sessions:
- Spatial planning workshop
- Usage of TEN-N maps and workflows
- Recommendations for TEN-N implications
In addition to the report, we are excited to share a video featuring interviews with our project partners and our Advisory Board. This video provides a dynamic perspective on the NaturaConnect project, showcasing the voices and visions behind our collective work.
Check out the photo album:
Thank you to everyone who contributed their expertise and insights – your engagement is helping to turn science into action for a resilient, connected European nature network.
Explore Project Outputs!
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