The European Diploma for Protected Areas celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2025. To mark the occasion, Spanish authorities will host a commemorative ceremony in Granada on 21 May, where Italy's Gallipoli Cognato Nature Reserve will be awarded the prestigious European Diploma for Protected Areas.
Established in 1965 by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, the European Diploma recognises natural and semi-natural areas of exceptional European value. It honours landscapes noted for their exemplary management and crucial role in preserving biological, geological, and landscape diversity across Europe.
The anniversary celebration will also bring together managers from European Diploma-holding sites. At a special meeting, they will share best practices and successful case studies in key areas such as climate change adaptation, water management, sustainable tourism, species recovery and habitat restoration, and engagement with local stakeholders.
The event will conclude with the adoption of the Granada Declaration, a collective commitment that underscores the importance of Europe's natural heritage, the need for its long-term conservation, and the role of effective, sustainable management. The declaration also promotes cross-border cooperation and aims to raise awareness about the future challenges and opportunities in nature conservation.
Follow live here: 60th anniversary of the European Diploma for Protected Areas
