One of the current most important and demanding challenges is to face the loss of biodiversity, encompassing the diversity of both habitat and species types. A strong EU legal basis for the nature conservation provides the foundation for the preservation of the EU natural heritage. We refer in particular to Habitats and Birds Directives, whose design of Natura 2000 network is based on. The SEE Countries are at different stages of the application of 92/43/EEC Dir. for the implementation of Nature 2000, as well as of management of natural sites. BE-NATUR aims therefore at favouring the better management and implementation of Nature 2000 sites in the SEE eco-regions, focussing in particular on wetlands (rivers, lakes, coastal shores). The exchange of knowledge and best practices within the consortium will be the basis for the definition of a Transnational Joint Strategy for the better management and improvement of Natura 2000 network, and the definition of Joint Transnational Action Plans for the conservation of species and habitats common to the PP areas, to concretely implement the EU legislative framework. The project and therefore the activities planned are based on: - learning process as the constant and proper management of protected areas is a very big challenge for all EU Member states and still more for candidates - policies integration and concrete application to face the increasing demand of land to the detriment of environment, and mitigate the related conflicts - uniformity of strategies and lobbying for the reduction of gaps in the field of environment management and protection - transnational communication and awareness raising to raise people's consciousness on environment as "cultural" requirement to improve and support the conservation activities and policies in the future Achievements: • Analysis of gaps in management of Natura 2000 sites and implementing the network directives• Common monitoring tool for Natura 2000 sites• Joint Action Plan for the conservation of alkaline fens and caladium fens• Joint Action Plan for the conservation of coastal sand dunes• Joint Action Plan for the conservation of the Pygmy Cormorant• Joint Action Plan for the conservation of the White Stork• Joint transnational strategy laying down common standards for managing Natura 2000 sitesFor more information see:http://www.southeast-europe.net/en/projects/approved_projects/?id=139