08/10/2015 (Agence Europe) - Natura 2000 Award open. On Wednesday 7 October, the European Commission opened the Natura 2000 Award for 2016. This competition, which is now being organised for the third consecutive year, rewards the best achievements in nature conservation through the management of natural areas that are protected under the European Habitats and Birds directives. Any organisation, company, local authority or private person involved in the Natura 2000 network can apply for the award until 30 November inclusive. Once the applications have been assessed, a list of finalists will be drawn up in March. Awards will be made in six categories - conservation; economic benefits; communication; reconciling interests and perceptions; cooperation and networking; the European citizen's award. The award ceremony will be held in Brussels in May 2016. (AN)