The Public Agency for the Promotion of Entrepreneurship and Development Projects of the Municipality of Izola (hereinafter referred to as The Public Agency JZP Izola), acting as the Implementing Structure of Municipality of Izola, a project partner in the EUSAIR Facility Point, actively participated in the International Large Carnivores Habitat Management Conference, which was organized in the scope of 4PETHABECO Project. The conference was held from 25 to 27 February 2026 in Tirana, Albania. The Public Agency JZP Izola also has a role of associated partner in the 4PETHABECO project, since the project implements the activity of the PETHABECHO flagship of Thematic steering group “Quality of Environment” EUSAIR.
The conference gathered researchers, policymakers and project partners from across the Adriatic–Ionian region and beyond to exchange knowledge and discuss key challenges related to habitat management, ecological connectivity and human–wildlife coexistence. The programme addressed a wide range of topics, including the distribution and ecological requirements of large carnivores, innovative approaches to habitat management, methods for improving ecological connectivity as well as the cultural, sociological and anthropological dimensions of human–wildlife interaction.
During the event, the representative of the Public Agency JZP Izola delivered a presentation titled The EUSAIR Strategy: Strengthening Environmental Quality through Flagship Initiatives. The presentation introduced the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR) and highlighted its role in strengthening cooperation among Adriatic–Ionian countries while promoting sustainable environmental management through flagship initiatives.
The presentation also served to promote the Strategy among conference participants and to place the discussions within a broader macro-regional policy framework. In addition, participation in the conference provided an opportunity to monitor the progress of the 4PETHABECO project, a flagship project, that is currently at a stage of developing a joint strategy and action plan for innovative large carnivore habitat management in the Adriatic–Ionian region.
The event offered a valuable platform for networking, exchanging experiences with international experts and following the latest developments in large carnivore conservation. Through its active involvement, the Municipality of Izola with the support Public Agency JZP, Izola continues to contribute to strengthening macro-regional cooperation and supporting initiatives that promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable development across the Adriatic–Ionian region.
