Ecology

In early October 2025, over 80 young participants from across Europe and beyond gathered in Tirana for the Congress of Young Europeans to explore a pressing question: where does Europe “end”, and what should it stand for today?

What began as a temporary artistic intervention in Skanderbeg Square is becoming a lasting civic landmark. The “Albania is Biodiversity” mosaic marks the next step in the campaign’s journey—from a public artwork to a long-term initiative that places biodiversity at the center of public life.

Polish mosaic artist Małgorzata “Gosia” Matyla, a graduate of the Scuola Mosaicisti del Friuli, is currently part of the team creating the “Albania is Biodiversity” mosaic in Albania.

As European ecosystems and biodiversity continue to decline at an alarming rate, the need for natural habitats is more critical than ever.

Albania, often hailed as one of Europe’s biodiversity hotspots, defies its modest size with a remarkable wealth of life cradled within it. Yet, this extraordinary biodiversity faces threats from short-sighted development policies that prioritize profit over preservation. It is time that Albania places biodiversity at the forefront, recognizing as a treasure to protect for all of us. 

At hbs Tirana, sustainability isn’t just something we advocate for— it’s embedded in everything we do. We believe that small, mindful changes can make a difference, so we have adopted simple yet impactful sustainable practices to reduce waste, conserve resources, and align our operations with our values as a Green Foundation. 

During three weeks of October 2023, ‘Albania is Biodiversity’ became the largest and longest-running campaign in Albania dedicated to raising awareness about the country’s rich yet endangered species and ecosystems. Organized by Tirana office of Heinrich Böll Foundation, national environmental organization, PPNEA, and international partners, the campaign aimed to bring nature closer to the people, inspire conservation efforts, and spark meaningful conversations about biodiversity.

The Green Culture Van is a mobile cultural center designed to bring artistic, social, and educational opportunities to undeserved communities outside the capital. Fully equipped with a cinema, exhibition materials, audio and video recording tools, bird monitoring facilities, and reading spaces, it serves as a dynamic hub for culture and learning.