In the LECA project, we’re all about building strong connections to make a real impact on biodiversity conservation. We’ve been actively networking, particularly through our involvement in the Biodiversity Working Group. Here, we collaborate with key players, including representatives from the environment ministries of various European countries, as well as experts from universities and research institutes. Our participation isn’t just about showing up—we’ve been presenting the LECA project, sharing our insights, and learning from others. This collaborative approach ensures that our efforts to support the coexistence of large carnivores in the Carpathians are grounded in shared knowledge and cross-border cooperation.
On the LECA project behalf, the project lead Martin Duľa presented four key pilot actions: wolf telemetry and stakeholder collaboration in Beskydy-Kysuce, extensive camera-trapping and preventive measures for lynx in the East Carpathians, similar efforts in the Slovak Karst-North Hungarian Mountains, and bear telemetry work in the Tatras. Importantly, he also shared progress on developing thematic guidance for monitoring, poaching investigation, and conflict prevention, the three key project outcomes. We were pleased that an interactive discussion to gather feedback and identify stakeholders for future project phases followed.
At this meeting, key environmental issues took center stage. Participants discussed a range of topics, including the development of strategic nature projects, tourism research, and the protection and restoration of biotopes and species. Collaboration with other organizations and relevant bodies was also a major focus, with participants sharing their experiences and exploring further partnerships to build resilient ecological networks across Europe. Most importantly, the meeting also tackled crucial recommendations and reviewed progress on implementing the Biodiversity Work Plan as well as implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework at the regional level, with a special emphasis on the Carpathians and the recently adopted Carpathian Biodiversity Framework.
You can find more information about the event here: http://www.carpathianconvention.org/2024/03/19/15th-meeting-of-the-working-group-on-biodiversity/.