This workshop summary was prepared under the framework of the Alpine Biodiversity Board (ABB) of the Alpine Convention and documents the outcomes of the online workshop held on 4 September 2025. The event explored how cross-border cooperation can strengthen the implementation of the EU Nature Restoration Regulation (NRR) in the Alpine region.

Joint strategies for nature restoration in the Alpine region

The EU Nature Restoration Regulation requires Member States to submit National Restoration Plans (NRPs) by September 2026, including a section on cross-border synergies. Given the ecological interconnectedness of the Alpine region and its particular vulnerability to climate change and land-use pressures, the report demonstrates the importance of a coordinated, transnational approach. It provides technical guidance and practical entry points to better align national measures – involving both EU Member States and non-EU Alpine countries.

Key results and focus areas

The report summarises how representatives from eight Alpine countries and the European Commission developed a shared Alpine perspective on restoration and identified transboundary areas for joint action.

Key outcomes include:

• Shared Alpine perspective: Alignment of regional and national targets, stronger integration of climate considerations, and a focus on peatlands, forests, grasslands, and freshwater ecosystems.
• Priority transboundary areas: Identification of key cross-border ecosystems such as Lake Constance, Lake Geneva, and Lake Maggiore, as well as the Po, Drava, Rhine, and Ticino river systems, complemented by wetlands and Alpine pastures.
• Building on existing cooperation frameworks: Recognition of established programmes such as Interreg Alpine Space and LIFE projects as foundations for transnational restoration efforts.
• Future opportunities: Recommendations to scale up peatland restoration, enhance ecological connectivity, strengthen shared basin governance, and foster exchange on monitoring and data interoperability. The engagement of local actors – including farmers, protected area managers, and municipalities – was highlighted as essential for successful implementation.

Contributing to a resilient Alpine landscape

The workshop summary illustrates the added value of cross-border coordination for achieving an ecologically coherent and resilient Alpine landscape. The consolidated draft text developed during the workshop serves as a reference document for the National Restoration Plans of both EU Member States and non-EU Alpine countries. Furthermore, the report emphasises the need to continue the dialogue initiated under the leadership of the Alpine Biodiversity Board, and to actively integrate the workshop’s results into national planning processes as well as into broader Alpine and international biodiversity initiatives.