11 re-evaluations and six new Charter applications in 2010

The staff at EUROPARC Consulting are currently busy planning the work for this year's Charter applications and re-evaluations. In 2010 there are 11 re-evaluations and six new applications in progress. The usual thick dossiers containing practical evidence to support applications are accumulating. They demonstrate the hard work and enthusiasm of the protected areas seeking Charter status. 

This year new countries such as Slovakia, Norway and Latvia are putting forward candidates to embark on the Charter process. There are also two new applications from Spain, France and Italy. Those who have finally prepared fully developed action plans and processes now wait keenly for an evaluation visit and decision.

Add to this the heartening efforts of those wishing to reaffirm their commitment to the Charter by undergoing re-evaluation; and even in these difficult financial circumstances it's going to be another busy year. We hope to place four Spanish, four French and one candidate from the UK into the re-evaluation programme for the year.

It's already clear that 2011 and 2012 will be bumper years for both new and returning candidates. In view of this, EUROPARC Consulting is assessing how to move the process forward. Our new Charter Toolkit – an easy to follow guide with a built-in element of personal mentoring - is currently being piloted. The Toolkit is aimed at helping new candidates smoothly through the process with expert guidance. It is an excellent middle-way between doing all the work on your own or employing consultants for the full process.

In 2010 the information resources provided to applicants, documentation supporting verifiers and final evaluation reporting should all be reviewed. In addition a revision of the Charter manuals is needed. Funding will secure these updates.

Read about Charter activities in 2009 in our current Annual Report. Now available in English, German and French from EUROPARC's online library.