ERDF Regional Programme
Restoration and protection of habitats of community interest, environmental improvement interventions, creation and restoration of wetlands, and construction of infrastructure for the protection and recovery of habitats for minor fauna and wild pollinating insects. These are some of the actions funded by the second edition of the call for proposals "Strengthening the Regional Ecological Network (RECORE) – 2026 Edition," approved by the Regional Council and funded with €3,2 million in European resources from the ERDF Regional Programme 2021-2027. This measure confirms the strategic role of protected areas in the region.Emilia Romagna and Lombardy for the protection of biodiversity and the need to strengthen ecosystem services, which can provide multiple benefits to the community, especially when inserted within a complex ecological network.
Conservation of natural habitats
"The protection and preservation of biodiversity are strategic priorities for our region," explains Regional Councilor for Parks and Forestry, Gessica Allegni. "The new call for proposals represents an important tool for supporting the conservation of natural habitats and promoting ecological connectivity, ensuring the mobility of species and the improvement of ecosystems. These actions are essential for creating a more sustainable future, also combating the effects of climate change, and for safeguarding our natural capital. We trust in the full participation of all protected area management bodies and local authorities and their projects. We are convinced that only together can we make a difference by strengthening the ecological network, benefiting everyone." The first round of the call for proposals, launched in 2024, has already funded 18 projects, for a total of €7,3 million for protected area management bodies and local authorities. The funded projects involved various interventions aimed at restoring the balance between human intervention and the natural context.
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The measure in detail
The call supports projects consistent with the actions outlined in the PAF (Prioritized Action Framework), the main programming tool for the Natura 2000 Network. Projects may be implemented within or outside Natura 2000 sites, provided they contribute to strengthening ecological connectivity (ecological corridors or stepping stones) and improving species mobility. These include the construction of wildlife infrastructure (ecoducts, ecobridges, underpasses, and overpasses) in at-risk areas, and the improvement of the ecological continuity of waterways (ladders and barrier removal). Projects must be completed by December 31, 2028. As in the previous call, protected area management bodies and local authorities are eligible for funding. The grant covers up to 90% of the investment, for a maximum of €500,000 per project. Applications can be submitted from 10:00 a.m. on July 1, 2026, to 1:00 p.m. on September 15, 2026 (Source: Emilia Romagna Region).
