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, participatory exercises and World Café discussions, 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.

 

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.

 

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