Albania’s rich landscapes, unique ecosystems, and exceptional biodiversity make nature conservation a national priority and a shared responsibility for future generations. In this context, the Youth4Nature initiative, implemented by the National Agency of Protected Areas (NAPA) with the support of United Nations Development Programme, is creating new opportunities for young professionals to actively contribute to the protection and promotion of Albania’s natural heritage.

 

During 2025, the project engaged 20 young professionals who worked alongside the Regional Administrations of Protected Areas in 10 National Parks and Natural Areas across the country. Their activities focused on environmental education, awareness-raising campaigns, nature-friendly tourism promotion, and clean-up initiatives in protected areas. Through direct engagement with schools, local communities, and visitors, the young participants promoted the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development approaches.

The initiative combines youth employment, environmental stewardship, and hands-on learning, helping participants strengthen their technical knowledge and practical skills in protected area management. By working closely with park staff and local stakeholders, the programme also encourages stronger connections between young people and nature, while promoting long-term environmental responsibility.

 

EU4Nature – Youth Program has three common program elements:

• • – Immersion in nature: Programs range from fully residential, offering multiple-day stays in parks and reserves, to visitor center-based, with expeditions to natural settings

• • – Relationship based: Programs have a RAPA staff – to-youth cooperation and are committed to learning through co-inquiry with staff and youth in the program.

• • – Environmental stewardship: Nature is a setting for learning and being in nature can spark a commitment to environmental stewardship and th e preservation of natural places

 

One of the key moments of the year was the national event “Nature: The Success of a Vision”, held in Tirana on 5 December 2025. The event brought together policymakers, conservation experts, protected area managers, development partners, and the young professionals participating in the programme. It provided an opportunity for participants to exchange experiences, discuss environmental challenges, and gain deeper insight into Albania’s priorities for biodiversity conservation and sustainable management of protected areas.

An important component of the programme was also the introduction of participants to the NAPA e-learning platform, which offers courses and information related to protected areas and environmental protection. Most participants are now actively registered on the platform and continue to follow the available training modules, strengthening their capacities and expanding their knowledge on nature conservation topics.

Through Youth4Nature, young people are becoming important ambassadors for nature conservation in Albania. The programme demonstrates how youth engagement, environmental education, and institutional cooperation can contribute to building a greener, more resilient, and nature-positive future.

 

National Agency of Protected Areas