Wetlands worldwide are often underestimated, but their role in preserving life on the planet is irreplaceable. These complex ecosystems protect us from floods, store carbon dioxide, regulate microclimates, and provide homes for up to 40% of the world’s species. A particularly fascinating fact is that wetlands store up to 50% more harmful gases compared to tropical forests, making them a key ally in the fight against climate change.
The Mediterranean: A Global Biodiversity Hotspot Under Threat
The Mediterranean region, one of the richest biodiversity areas on the planet, is facing dramatic losses of natural habitats. Since 1992, 52% of marine and 28% of freshwater biodiversity has been lost, with wetlands among the most endangered habitats. Globally, 36% of wetland-dependent species are now on the brink of extinction. Combined with the impacts of climate change, millions of people and natural resources in the Mediterranean are at risk.
Among these precious ecosystems, Buljarica Bay on the Montenegrin coast represents a true natural gem. Located in the central part of the Montenegrin seacoast, covering about 58 hectares, Buljarica encompasses diverse habitats, ranging from lagoons and canals to wetlands and dense reed beds.
This area is not only a natural treasure of Montenegro but also an internationally recognised ecological oasis. It is designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and Important Plant Area (IPA), nominated as an Emerald site, its beach protected as a Natural Monument, and its waters included in the Katic Marine Nature Park. Based on existing data, Buljarica is home to several species listed in Annex II and includes several priority habitats from Annex I of the Habitats Directive, as well as species from Annex I of the Birds Directive, making it a potential Natura 2000 site.
Exceptional Biodiversity Value of Buljarica Bay
MES has been researching and working on the protection of Buljarica for years. Through cooperation with international experts (the EnvPRO Environmental Program and the Society for Ecological Development supported by Professor Pierre Ibisch from the Centre for Econics and Ecosystem Management at Eberswalde University) and applying the MARISCO (Adaptive Management of vulnerability and Risk at Conservation sites) methodology, the society has identified key threats and potentials of the area. Results clearly indicate an urgent need to protect Buljarica’s ecosystem, with strict control over construction and resource use.
Buljarica is home to extraordinary biodiversity:
Marine and Coastal Ecosystems: Meadows of the seagrass Posidonia oceanica protect the coastline from erosion and support rich marine life.
- Freshwater and Brackish Ecosystems: Buljarica hosts 41 species of dragonflies, 11 amphibian species (73% of all amphibians in Montenegro), and 93 bird species, many of which nest in the area.
- Terrestrial and Karst Ecosystems: These include 36 different habitats, with endemic and relict species of plants and animals.
The most significant part for strict protection in Buljarica is the wetland area behind the beach, which includes rivers, numerous canals, ponds, and pools. A total of 22 species of reptiles have been recorded in Buljarica, making up nearly 60% of all reptiles registered in Montenegro. Additionally, 11 amphibian species have been recorded, constituting about 73% of all currently registered amphibian species in Montenegro. Due to this, Buljarica represents a typical and very important herpetological reserve on the Adriatic coast.
Besides its natural values, Buljarica is important for the local population, whose livelihoods depend on its resources. However, unplanned construction and land sales seriously threaten its sustainability.
Vision for Sustainable Development of Buljarica
Protecting Buljarica is not an obstacle to development – on the contrary, preserved nature can be the foundation for sustainable tourism, education, and local economic development. Key measures include:
- Establishing protection and management regimes for ecosystems, including restoration of damaged habitats.
- Developing sustainable tourism strategies focusing on natural building materials, renewable energy, and involving local people and their products.
- Educating and involving local communities and tourists in nature conservation activities.
For these measures to be effective, it is necessary to align legal frameworks and planning documents with the principles of sustainable development and international standards.
Through the Klaus Toepfer Fellowship program, MES plans to further intensify its efforts to advocate for the protection of this unique area by developing a strategic development plan for Buljarica.
This document will precisely define key steps to initiate the protection process, while simultaneously improving MES’s capacities for active conservation and monitoring of this invaluable ecosystem.
Conclusion
Buljarica has the potential to be a model of harmony between nature conservation and economic development. Commitment from all actors – from authorities and scientists to local communities – is necessary to protect and enhance this unique ecosystem. Only through a holistic and long-term approach can we secure the future of this natural treasure.
Montenegrin Ecologists Society (MES)