- Theme
- European Atlas of the Seas
Last week, biodiversity was high on the agenda with the celebration of Natura 2000 Day on 21 May and International day for biological diversity on 22 May!
European Union legislation protects over 27,000 nature sites, forming the Natura 2000 network. This network embodies the rich diversity of Europe’s wildlife and habitats, encompassing nearly one-fifth of the continent's land area and about one-tenth of its surrounding maritime zones—an expanse comparable to the combined size of Spain and Italy. Throughout the week around Natura 2000 Day, BioBlitz events were organised in Natura 2000 areas to celebrate the incredible European network of protected nature sites. What is a BioBlitz, you ask? A BioBlitz is a fun, hands-on hunt where participants try to find and identify as many species as possible in a specific area and time. It’s a great way to connect with nature, learn more about local wildlife, and contribute to science by making a survey of biodiversity.
For the 2026 edition of International Day for Biological Diversity, under the theme “Acting locally for global impact”, a powerful idea was placed at the center: major changes begin on a small, local scale. The success of this plan to reverse biodiversity loss depends on the strength of local actions—on the commitment of communities, organizations, and governments working together. The campaign also aimed to instill a sense of urgency. Only four years remain to meet both the near-term targets of the Global Biodiversity Framework and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We must act now.
Did you know that there is a map layer on marine Natura 2000 sites in the European Atlas of the Seas? Explore the Map of the Week to see where marine Natura 2000 sites are located and click on them to learn more.
Interested in nature? Make sure that you check out the website of the EU Green Week 2026 which will take place next week, on 3-4 June 2026 in Brussels (Belgium). The 26th edition of the EU Green Week puts the spotlight on the business case for nature, demonstrating that a nature-positive economy is essential for Europe’s prosperity, resilience, and competitiveness.
Organised by the European Commission, the high-level conference has a dynamic programme combining panel discussions, TED-like talks, cinema nights, and a dedicated startup-investor matchmaking event. The EU Green Week 2026 will bring together policymakers, investors, farmers and civil society.
Have you had a chance to play the Ocean Sports Game mentioned in last week’s Map of the Week? Did you find the five images of sports? Read the game's instructions, have a look at the Atlas team's hints to find the images and dive into the map to find them! Once you have found them, find out how you can protect the ocean and contribute to citizen science when enjoying coastal and water sports.
Wish to know more?
- Read our previous Maps of the Week on International Mother Earth Day and the Status of Biodiversity and Marine bird observations;
- Get details on the International Day for Biological Diversity campaign;
- Find out about the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA)’s Wetlands for Life campaign;
- Have a look at the EU Green Week 2026 conference programme and partner events.
The data in the map is provided by EMODnet.
The European Atlas of the Seas is powered by the European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet). Don’t miss the latest news, register for the monthly EMODnet News Digest.