In response to the increasing environmental pressures on the South Adriatic Ionian Strait, Lega Ambiente Molise will gather  experts, researchers, and stakeholders from Italy, Albania, and Montenegro at the University of Molise in Termoli on April 11, 2025, for a workshop focusing on 'Marine Protected Areas: Stakeholder Engagement and Sustainability" under the Interreg ENGAGE project "Enhancing protection of nature and biodiversity of the “South Adriatic Ionian Strait” .

This cross-border initiative, funded by the European Union through the Interreg IPA South Adriatic 2021–2027 Programme, aims to safeguard one of the Mediterranean’s most ecologically significant areas. The South Adriatic Ionian Strait is officially recognized as an area of Ecological or Biological Significance (EBSA), but it faces threats from overfishing, habitat degradation, and biodiversity loss.

Friday’s event in Termoli will feature expert-led discussions on:

• The state of biodiversity and conservation efforts for endangered species in the Adriatic,
• Sustainable fisheries resource management,
• Case studies on stakeholder engagement models in Albania and Montenegro.

Two thematic meeting will be held, focusing on marine biodiversity protection and sustainable use of marine resources, encouraging participants to contribute their insights and foster cross-border collaboration.

The Termoli meeting is expected to take a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach to addressing these challenges to strengthen regional cooperation and lay the groundwork for effective, community-driven environmental policies. By sharing knowledge and strategies, the ENGAGE project aims to:

• Improve biodiversity monitoring and conservation,
• Promote sustainable marine resource use,
• Establish lasting partnerships across the South Adriatic region.

Participants can register to this link. English translation will be available throughout the event.

ENGAGE is implemented by a consortium of international partners:

• Torre Guaceto Management Consortium (Italy) – Project Leader
• Albanian Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development (Albania)
• Montenegro Dolphin Research (Montenegro)
• Mediterranean Center for Environmental Monitoring (Montenegro)
• Legambiente Molise APS (Italy)

Together, they work towards a shared vision: a healthy, resilient South Adriatic ecosystem that supports both nature and local communities.