Czech‑Saxon Nature Network Project Launches Cross‑Border Conservation Partnerships

The Czech association Čmelák together with Germany's Naturschutzzentrum Zittauer Gebirge has launched a three‑year cross‑border initiative, the “Network for Nature”, funded by the EU Interreg Czech‑Saxon programme. Targeting the Liberec, Ústí nad Labem and Karlovy Vary regions and the adjacent German state of Saxony, the project aims to establish at least ten new Czech‑Saxon partnerships for practical nature protection and biodiversity restoration by the end of 2028. It will create a support centre and web catalogue to help small NGOs overcome language, staffing and administrative barriers, offering expert advice, translation services, exchange visits, workshops and joint meetings.

The programme provides roughly €666,410 (about 16 million CZK) to assist NGOs that have struggled to access cross‑border funds, thereby fostering joint habitat projects such as wetland restoration and forest diversification.