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Bridging protected areas along the Danube
Kmetova-Biro, Elena Rozac, Vlatko Frank, Georg Marusic, Matej Lagutov, Viktor
Kmetova-Biro, Elena
Rozac, Vlatko
Frank, Georg
Marusic, Matej
Lagutov, Viktor
Title / Series / Name
Nature Conservation-bulgaria
Publication Volume
Publication Issue
62
Pages
Editors
Keywords
DANUBEPARKS
Danube
WILDislands concept
ecological connectivity
protected areas
transnational cooperation
Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics
Nature and Landscape Conservation
Danube
WILDislands concept
ecological connectivity
protected areas
transnational cooperation
Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics
Nature and Landscape Conservation
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Lagutov-Viktor_2026.pdf
Adobe PDF, 2.38 MB
URI
https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14018/28900
Abstract
This paper examines the role of transnational cooperation in conserving the ecological integrity of the Danube River through the DANUBEPARKS network of protected areas. As Europe’s most species-rich river system, the Danube connects diverse biogeographic regions, yet faces increasing pressure from habitat degradation, pollution and hydrological modifications. Recognizing the need for a unified approach, protected area administrations across the basin have formed partnerships to address shared conservation challenges. The paper traces the evolution of this collaboration from early bilateral agreements to the establishment of the DANUBEPARKS Association, a network fostering ecological connectivity and coordinated restoration. A key achievement is the development of the WILDisland concept, which identifies islands as critical habitats and indicators of riparian ecosystem health. Additionally, the network’s advocacy efforts have contributed to the formation of the Danube WILDisland Ramsar Regional Initiative, securing international recognition and policy support for long-term conservation. By bridging protected areas and aligning conservation goals across borders, DANUBEPARKS Association serves as a model for integrated river basin management. Its success demonstrates the power of trust, shared governance and cross-sector partnerships in overcoming political, economic and ecological barriers ensuring the sustainable management of one of Europe’s most vital waterways.
Topic
Publisher
Place of Publication
Type
Journal article
Date
2026-02-25
Language
ISBN
Identifiers
10.3897/natureconservation.62.160887