Abstract
Over three years of the project, Centralparks contributed to the establishment of more effective communication of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development objectives to local Carpathian communities, raising their awareness and support. The developed thematic strategies are not just addressed to central administration bodies but directly target the inhabitants of the Carpathians, represented by their local governments, and the administrations of Carpathian protected areas. Benchmarks have been developed and participation of local communities has been facilitated thanks to the adoption of Centralparks strategies by municipality authorities (Magura and Gemer region) and local administrators. Pilot actions directly supported the implementation of two relevant Protocols for the Carpathian Convention (on biodiversity and sustainable tourism) at the local level (accordingly to the priority of the current CC Presidency).
To better support governmental institutions and other stakeholders in considering Ecosystem Services in evidence-based decision making, policy development, and management practices, a dedicated Toolkit has been developed. It provides a practical set of procedures for understanding what might be gained or lost from a given management choice and the human dimensions of such effects. It can help protected area managers to better comprehend and address potential issues and reduce conflicts. It is a key tool to support wider global processes, capable to maintain Carpathian ecosystems intact, to mitigate climate change and to provide long-term livelihoods for local communities.