The Group of Specialists on the European Diploma for Protected Areas held its annual meeting on 24th February 2021 by video-conference. The Group discussed consequences of the lack of appraisal visits last year due to the pandemic, and possible solutions, including an exceptional extension to those sites whose diploma is up for renewal this year. Linked to this, the Group discussed foreseen appraisal visits in 2021 including those which were postponed from last year, and possible alternative ways to maintain monitoring of Diploma holding areas such as by conducting visits by virtual means.

The Group further discussed several sites requiring a particular attention, and exchanged views on future business of the European Diploma, including a communication strategy which was highlighted in the vision document presented at last year’s meeting.

For more information, visit the European Diploma for Protected Areas meeting page.