Background Implementation of the Natura 2000 network is one of the main requirements of European Union environmental legislation. In Poland, the process started in 2004 with Polish accession to the EU. However, the selection and designation of Natura 2000 sites has frequently led to public discontent and objections caused by a fear that the designation would stunt economic growth. A survey by Poland's General Directorate for Environmental Protection, found that the majority of consulted municipalities were against including their territories in the network. Negative attitudes persist: according to a survey of institutions involved in setting up the network, conducted by FWIE, the general public has a lack of knowledge about Natura 2000 and a poor understanding of the network’s objectives and principles. In many cases, there has been a lack of public consultation prior to designation of Natura 2000 status. Currently, management plans are being drawn up across Poland for Natura 2000 sites. The process requires the participation of local authorities and other stakeholders, and thus creates an opportunity to conduct a comprehensive information and education campaign on Natura 2000. Objectives The main objective of the project is to raise public awareness and knowledge of the functioning of the Natura 2000 network, while at the same time contributing to the better implementation of EU environmental legislation in Poland. In particular, the project aims to: Increase local communities’ awareness and knowledge of the Natura 2000 network, and of the possibilities for performing economic activities on the protected sites. This will be done through nationwide educational campaigns and training sessions designed mainly for local administration representatives and business leaders; Develop efficient public consultation procedures and to increase local community participation in the preparation of conservation plans; Improve the quality of conservation plans and, as a result, reduce the number of complaints and protests against Natura 2000 sites; Improve the knowledge of Natura 2000 site managers and, as a result, improve the quality of the management and monitoring of these sites and their protection; and Promote other EU Member States’ good practices as well as model solutions for various social and economic problems encountered on Natura 2000 sites. Expected results: The main result of the project will be increased knowledge and better understanding of functioning of the Natura 2000 network. This will result in fewer local-scale conflicts over Natura 2000 sites and other protected areas. Specific results will include: A total of 350-400 stakeholders will take part in training sessions across all 16 voivodships (regions) of Poland; As a result of these initial training sessions, a report will be produced on the most difficult and pressing issues related to the functioning of Natura 2000 sites; A 12-part TV series called 'Mission: Nature' will be produced and broadcast on the public television channel TVP2. Each 25-30 minute episode will present the general idea, principles and assets of the Natura 2000 network. The series is expected to attract 12 million viewers. Some 9 000 DVDs of the series will be distributed; A list of 10 model procedures for public consultation and for solving local conflicts in Natura 2000 sites will be drawn up in collaboration with representatives of various interest groups from 10 selected sites (the process will involve 150-250 people in total). The model procedures will then be applied while drawing up conservation plans for the selected sites; A Natura 2000 Information Centre will be created. Composed of a team of experts in nature conservation, legislation, fundraising, planning, economy and eco-tourism, this will provide information on the implementation of EU legislation and on the Natura 2000 network; and An online e-learning platform will be created to educate users about the Natura 2000 network and other nature conservation designations.