Mediterranean ecosystem restoration workshop in Piran

Katarina Koller Šarić from Association Hyla, an expert in species and habitat monitoring for the LIFE for Mauremys project participated in the 1st Summer School organized by the Natural Heritage Mission, titled “Our Mediterranean ecosystem’s health is in danger. Time to restore it!” Held from June 18 to June 20, 2024, in Piran, Slovenia. This workshop provided a rich learning experience and fostered connections essential for advancing key tasks within the LIFE for Mauremys project. Specifically, Katarina's involvement is crucial for the development of guidelines for restoring and managing Mediterranean ponds and nesting sites (Task T2.1) as well as for building a strong network with other LIFE and non-LIFE projects (Task T6.3). The summer school’s combination of lectures, team work, and field visits offered Katarina valuable insights to improve the practical implementation of these tasks.

The summer school focused on the practical implementation of the new EU Nature Restoration Law, a critical element of the European Green Deal. This law mandates that EU member states restore at least 20% of land and sea areas by 2030 and all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050. Addressing key questions about the readiness of individuals, institutions, and society to meet these goals, the summer school provided a platform for knowledge sharing, presenting good practices, and exploring tools for prioritizing and monitoring restoration efforts. Participants, including Katarina, gained not only technical knowledge but also explored funding opportunities and strategies to communicate the need for ecosystem restoration. Gained knowledge will directly benefit the LIFE for Mauremys project’s conservation efforts.