The Public Agency for the Promotion of Entrepreneurship and Development Projects of the Municipality of Izola (Public Agency JZP Izola), acting as the Implementing Structure of the Municipality of Izola and a project partner in the EUSAIR Facility Point, took part in the International Large Carnivores Habitat Management Conference organised within the framework of the 4PETHABECO project. The conference took place in Tirana, Albania, from 25 to 27 February 2026.
In addition to its role in the EUSAIR Facility Point, the Public Agency JZP Izola also participates in the 4PETHABECO project as an associated partner, as the project carries out activities connected to the PETHABECHO flagship of the EUSAIR Thematic Steering Group “Quality of Environment”.
The conference brought together researchers, policymakers and project partners from across the Adriatic–Ionian region and beyond to share knowledge and discuss key issues related to habitat management, ecological connectivity and coexistence between humans and wildlife. The programme covered several topics, including the distribution and ecological needs of large carnivores, innovative methods for habitat management, approaches to strengthening ecological connectivity, and the cultural, sociological and anthropological aspects of human–wildlife interactions.
During the conference, a representative of the Public Agency JZP Izola delivered a presentation entitled The EUSAIR Strategy: Strengthening Environmental Quality through Flagship Initiatives. The presentation introduced the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR) and emphasised its role in enhancing cooperation among countries of the Adriatic–Ionian area while supporting sustainable environmental management through flagship initiatives.
The presentation also helped raise awareness of the Strategy among conference participants and positioned the discussions within the broader context of macro-regional policy cooperation. Moreover, participation in the event enabled monitoring of the progress of the 4PETHABECO project, a flagship initiative currently working on the development of a joint strategy and action plan for innovative large carnivore habitat management in the Adriatic–Ionian region.
The conference provided an important opportunity for networking, exchanging experiences with international experts and keeping track of the latest developments in large carnivore conservation. Through its active participation, the Municipality of Izola, with the support of the Public Agency JZP Izola, continues to contribute to stronger macro-regional cooperation and to initiatives that support biodiversity protection and sustainable development across the Adriatic–Ionian region.
