EU for Prespa - Restoration of natural resources and enhancing sustainable agriculture and tourism
Project Description
The “EU for Prespa - Restoration of Natural Resources and Enhancing Sustainable Agriculture and Tourism” project aims to support the sustainable development of the Prespa region through improved management of natural resources, environmentally friendly agriculture, and sustainable tourism. Implemented by UNDP under the broader EU for Prespa Action, the project promotes greener economic development pathways while addressing environmental degradation and pressures affecting the Prespa Lake ecosystem.
The action focuses on strengthening the capacities of local institutions, farmers, civil society organisations, businesses, and citizens to adopt sustainable practices that contribute to environmental protection and economic resilience. Activities target water and soil pollution reduction, biodiversity conservation, invasive species control, sustainable irrigation and farming methods, and support for organic and environmentally friendly agricultural production.
In parallel, the project promotes sustainable tourism development through investments in tourism infrastructure, diversification of eco-tourism products, and support for local tourism operators and communities. The project also contributes to strengthening cross-border cooperation among the Prespa riparian countries through coordinated environmental governance and implementation of the Strategic Action Plan for Prespa Park.
By combining environmental protection, sustainable agriculture, and tourism development, the project seeks to improve the quality of life, strengthen local economies, and ensure the long-term preservation of the unique Prespa ecosystem.
Specific Objective
• To preserve and improve the ecological status of the Prespa Lake ecosystem through monitoring, biodiversity protection, and control of invasive alien fish species.
• To reduce water and soil pollution through improved agricultural practices and sustainable natural resource management.
• To increase the adoption of environmentally friendly and organic agriculture, including improved irrigation systems, soil protection, and sustainable crop production.
• To support the development and diversification of sustainable tourism products and eco-tourism services in the Prespa region.
• To strengthen cross-border cooperation and coordinated environmental governance through implementation of the 'Strategic Action Plan for Prespa Park'.
Expected Results
• The ecological condition of the Prespa Lake area is improved through systematic environmental monitoring, biodiversity protection measures, and control of invasive alien fish species.
• Agricultural pollution affecting water and soil resources is reduced through the application of sustainable farming practices and improved natural resource management.
• Farmers and local stakeholders adopt environmentally friendly agricultural methods, including organic production, irrigation optimisation, soil protection, and crop diversification.
• Sustainable tourism infrastructure and eco-tourism products are developed, generating new economic opportunities and supporting local communities in the Prespa region.
• Capacities of local institutions, CSOs, tourism operators, and farmers are strengthened through training, technical support, and financial assistance for sustainable development initiatives.
• Cross-border cooperation among Prespa riparian countries is enhanced through coordinated planning, data-sharing, and implementation of the 'Strategic Action Plan for Prespa Park'.
Project map
EU for Prespa: Sustainable Tourism Activities Officially Launched
PROJECT DETAILS
North Macedonia
Priority Area:
Environment and Green transition Subsector:
Sustainable environment Topic:
Environment, Agriculture, Cross-Border Cooperation, Local Development Project Status:
Ongoing Start Date:
11.12.2023 End Date:
10.06.2027 EU Project Number:
451-624 


