On 12 and 13 May, the two-day Natural Heritage Mission’s Community of Practice Meeting took place at ISG – Instituto Superior de Gestão in Lisbon, bringing together experts, partners, and stakeholders from across the Mediterranean region.
The COASTRUST project was represented by Panagiota Saranti, Gayle Murphy, Riccardo Pallotta, Antonija Odak and Mia Zeljić, who actively contributed to discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions throughout the event.
The main focus of the meeting was the exchange of experiences, presentation of best practices and innovative approaches to sustainable natural heritage management, climate resilience and strengthening cooperation among projects.
Following the opening ceremony, roundtable discussions were held focusing on the results and added value of the Amplification Room services for thematic projects. A representative of the COASTRUST project presented the project’s results and shared experiences from a project entering its final phase. The discussion continued with a focus on participation in the Community’s thematic clusters – small working groups bringing together projects and stakeholders around shared topics – particularly the “Tools for Environmental Governance” cluster and the benefits such cooperation brought to the project.
Particular attention was given to communication activities, including the “Solve the Challenge 2026” campaign, which this year focuses on water crisis and conservation. The campaign aims to encourage cooperation between experts, institutions, and local communities in finding effective and sustainable solutions related to climate change and environmental protection.
During the second day of the meeting, discussions focused on shaping recommendations and measures for sustainable natural heritage management, as well as on transferring project results within the Natural Heritage Mission community. Representatives of the COASTRUST project actively participated in discussions on past experiences, future priorities, and examples of good practice.
As part of the session dedicated to the Mentorship programme, a member of the COASTRUST project team presented a shared coastal stewardship approach for the sustainable management of natural resources, together with possibilities for its application in different coastal areas. The aim of this approach is to encourage cooperation with relevant stakeholders and further strengthen sustainable natural resource management at the local and regional levels.
The meeting concluded with an exchange of ideas on future cooperation opportunities and the continuation of joint activities aimed at strengthening sustainable natural resource management across the Mediterranean region.
