The “DINALPCONNECT” project aims to improve transnational cooperation to reduce fragmentation and enhance ecological connectivity for the long-term conservation of biodiversity in the Dinaric Mountains and their connection with the Alps.

The strategy of the “DINALPCONNECT” project for ecological connectivity is based on spatial analysis of current axes and barriers as a framework at a macro-regional level. The action plans are based on guidelines for agricultural and forestry practices that protect biodiversity and will enable the implementation of actions to improve the ecological connectivity of selected habitats on both sides of national borders.

The project is expected to improve the capacity at a transnational level for environmental sensitivity, combating fragmentation, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the ecosystem in the Adriatic-Ionian region through the following actions:

• Strategies for improving Ecological Connectivity in the region around the Dinaric Alps and the Alps.
• Action plans in pilot areas aimed at promoting Ecological Connectivity.
• Networks of cross-border pilot areas.

The project “DINALPCONNECT” commenced in March 2020 and is expected to be completed in February 2023. The project is being implemented with funding from the Second Call of INTERREG V-B Adriatic – Ionian ADRION Programme 2014 – 2020, which includes the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) Fund.

In the project, AVMap undertook:

• Organization of technical meetings to inform interested stakeholders about the promotion of the project’s actions.
• Collection of data and analysis of international practices for the strategic development of ecological connectivity.
• Development of an action plan through the study of the Greek study area and organization of a workshop.
• Creation of a cross-border network for ecological connectivity.
• Compilation of a report on the project’s dissemination activities.
• Preparation of a progress report within the framework of financial management.