GreenAL National Forum on Ecosystems and Biodiversity: A Joint Call for Nature Protection
The Project GreenAL “Supporting Environmental Civil Society Organizations 2024 – 2027” organized the National Forum on Ecosystems and Biodiversity, which brought together civil society organizations, public institutions, experts, and community representatives engaged in environmental issues and nature conservation.
In the opening remarks, it was emphasized that Albania’s natural heritage is at a critical crossroads, facing increasing threats such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, and pollution. At the same time, the opening of Chapter 27: “Environment and Climate Change” in the EU accession process requires direct engagement from various civil society actors to accelerate integration efforts.
The first panel, “Institutional Challenges of Ecosystem Management”, presented diverse perspectives on the implementation of environmental policies, alignment with EU legislation, forest protection, and the scientific assessment of protected areas. Discussions highlighted the need for: better coordination and monitoring; greater involvement of local communities; and increased technical and financial capacities within public institutions.
The “Lightning Talks” session showcased concrete cases from the field, including grassroots initiatives for forest protection, urban biodiversity, and the monitoring of lakes and rivers. Local activists and community representatives shared their experiences, demonstrating how community-led initiatives can contribute to broader environmental movements.
Environmental education was also highlighted as a fundamental need for promoting sustainable development.
A Shared Commitment to Future Collaboration
The forum concluded with a joint call to build bridges between institutions, civil society, and communities — placing at the center a shared vision for a future where even the smallest local initiatives contribute to a national strategy for protecting ecosystems and biodiversity in Albania.
The GreenAL project – “Supporting Environmental Civil Society Organizations 2024–2027” is funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), with funds from the Government of Sweden. It is implemented by Co-PLAN, Institute for Habitat Development, in cooperation with VIS Albania and COSV Albania.