The project “Save Nature Georgia” will cover more programs to protect Georgia’s natural and vulnerable forest areas. The project is being implemented with the support of the ongoing cooperation between the Ministry of Environment and Agriculture and the Government of Sweden.
It is to be specifically mentioned that the joint project “Save Nature Georgia” management plans are being prepared for 13 areas of the Emerald Network. These plans will be implemented in accordance with Georgia’s responsibilities under the provisions of the European Convention on the Protection of Wildlife and Natural Habitats.
Recently an information meeting was held in Gardabani city hall to strengthen municipalities’ involvement in developing management plans for the emerald network. Representatives of the project “Save Nature—Georgia,” the Biodiversity and Forestry Department, Gardabani City Hall, and Ilia Chavchavadze State University attended the significant meeting. At the same time the representative of the Ministry of Environment and Agriculture of Georgia were present as well.
All the participants discussed the importance of the emerald network and the preparation of management plans for the target emerald areas in Gardabani and Lake Jandar. Also field visits were made to emerald target areas located in Gardabani and Marneuli municipalities.
It should be noted that within the framework of the “Save Nature Georgia” program last year a management plan was prepared for 4 emerald areas. This year the plan for 9 territories is being prepared. Thus the work on the first versions of management plans for emerald territories throughout Georgia will be completed.
The representative of the Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture said that they are planning to spread awareness among the general public regarding the protection of the country’s natural resources. They are also discussing with other stakeholders for the implementation of environment-related policies and regulations.
The project Save Nature Georgia has been successfully running in the country since its introduction. The various Swedish government agencies have been helping the Georgian agencies to ensure the implementation of the project.