Sectoral policies and a dynamic economic development of the Danube river basin thus represent a major challenge for the remaining green spaces in the area. Ecological connectivity and joint transnational strategies addressing this topic are not yet fully on the agenda in political discussion. Within the frame of the implementation of the European Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) the discussion gains momentum. Organizations or initiatives such as DANUBEPARKS, the Carpathian Network of Protected areas or the Green Belt Initiative are constantly working on the practical implementation of connectivity projects. Bavaria and Croatia coordinate Priority Area 06 (Biodiversity) of the EUSDR and works, similarly as the EUSALP Action Group 7, towards a strategic strengthening of ecological networks at macroregional level. At medium term, the establishment of a TEN-G (Transnational Network for Green Infrastructures) is envisaged to provide a strategic instrument at
European level. However, it remains unclear which activities, programmes and projects are currently going on and how the European Green Infrastructure Strategy could be implemented in practice. Activities are numerous and spread all across the Danube River Basin and are often driven by local or national actors as well as by NGOs.

For more information, you can find the study: Ecological Connectivity in the Danube Region HERE