Forest Ambassador of the Sonian Forest: Bringing Natura 2000 Closer to People

The Forest Ambassador of the Sonian Forest pilot project demonstrates how innovative engagement methods can bring Natura 2000 sites closer to the public. Led by Bruxelles Bavard in collaboration with Hyppy Praxis, the project transforms a horse-drawn carriage into a mobile exhibition and meeting place, creating direct conversations between visitors and nature experts in the heart of the Sonian Forest.

Since its launch in March 2025, the project has organized a series of seasonal outreach events around themes such as forest ponds, wildlife, biodiversity, forest soils, and the challenges facing forest ecosystems. By meeting visitors where they are, the initiative creates a welcoming and accessible environment for learning about Natura 2000 and the importance of nature conservation.

Impact

The pilot has shown that personal interaction remains one of the most effective ways to raise awareness about biodiversity. The mobile exhibition attracts a wide range of forest users, with visitors spontaneously approaching the carriage, engaging with guides, and discovering educational materials. During peak events, the project reached approximately 50 to 60 people in direct contact with the exhibition within just two hours.

Beyond visitor numbers, the project's greatest impact lies in the quality of the dialogue it creates. Families, walkers, nature enthusiasts, and local stakeholders engage in conversations about wildlife protection, Natura 2000, responsible recreation, and the ecological value of the Sonian Forest. The initiative also strengthens cooperation between nature guides, volunteers, forest stakeholders, and conservation organizations, fostering knowledge exchange and a shared commitment to biodiversity.

The project demonstrates how a creative and community-oriented approach can make Natura 2000 more visible, accessible, and meaningful to citizens. By turning encounters in nature into opportunities for learning and discussion, the Forest Ambassador pilot contributes to a stronger connection between people and protected areas, helping build long-term support for biodiversity conservation.