The adoption of the EU Nature Restoration Regulation (NRR) marks a turning point in European biodiversity policy. To meet its binding targets, all Member States must prepare National Restoration Plans (NRPs) by 2026 – with a dedicated focus on cross-border cooperation. Against this backdrop, the German Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN), the Alpine Convention, and Ecologic Institute convened the international online workshop "Synergies for Nature Restoration in the Alpine Region" on 4 September 2025.

A Shared Dialogue among Alpine States

The workshop gathered representatives from EU and non-EU Alpine countries to discuss restoration challenges and opportunities in the Alpine region. Particular attention was given to Article 14(17) of the NRR, which explicitly encourages coordination across national borders where ecosystems extend beyond political frontiers.

Expert Contributions Framing the Debate

Ecologic Institute provided central impulses throughout the agenda: McKenna Davis moderated the event and presented an overview of ongoing restoration planning processes across the region. Dr. Benjamin Kupilas led the joint reflection on draft text for section 4.2.11(a) of the NRPs, guiding discussions on priorities, gaps, and opportunities. Teresa Spantzel set the scene for transnational restoration in the second block, preparing the ground for breakout sessions that explored concrete cross-border measures.

From Best Practices to Future Actions

Participants also examined examples of existing transboundary restoration projects, such as the I-SWAMP initiative for Alpine wetlands, the SPARE project on river ecosystem connectivity, and the EUSALP AG7 project database showcasing over 150 restoration initiatives. In breakout sessions, key transboundary areas were identified – including Lake Constance, the Po River Basin, and Alpine wetlands and forests. Discussions emphasized not only ecological priorities, but also the importance of stakeholder engagement, alignment of monitoring systems, and data interoperability to ensure effective joint implementation.

Outlook: Towards Coherent Alpine Restoration Planning

The workshop provided a platform for aligning Alpine perspectives and creating shared inputs to national plans. Its outcomes will help strengthen coherence across borders, foster collaborative restoration measures, and position the Alpine region as a model for ecological connectivity and resilience in Europe.