Who we are

The Society for the Protection of Biodiversity of Thrace (SPBT) is an environmental organisation, which is active in the region of Thrace and focuses mainly on the mountainous and semi-mountainous areas of Evros and Rhodope. Our main goal is the protection of the nature of Thrace, with an emphasis on birds of prey as being indicators of having good biodiversity. We implement actions to protect rare bird species and preserve their important habitats.
The focus of our activities is on the harmonious coexistence of man and nature. Especially in Thrace, because its unique natural wealth was created as a result of the traditional agricultural practices of the region, our activities are also targeted at stimulating the rural economy and reducing land abandonment, particularly by young people.

History

Today, the staff of the newly established SPBT have the previous scientific experience, the training and tools, along with decades of experience in managing innovative programmes for nature protection that collectively gives them a deep knowledge of the value of the region and the challenges it faces. This level of experience has been gained by the staff from an involvement with the long-term programme implemented in the region by WWF Greece. Thus, they are in the best position to protect the sensitive ecological balances of the region from the challenges that arise both at the present time and in the future. These challenges result from the degradation of the habitats of birds of prey, because of inadequate environmental management or the installation of energy infrastructures, which are responsible for killing wildlife due to direct impacts and electrocution.