2025-2026 Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Region Development
Projekat je usmjeren na unapređenje zaštite odabranih Natura 2000 i nacionalno zaštićenih vrsta herpetofaune u Crnoj Gori, u skladu sa obavezama koje proizilaze iz evropske Direktive o staništima, kao i važećeg nacionalnog zakonodavnog i strateškog okvira. Polazeći od potrebe za jačanjem stručne i naučne osnove za donošenje odluka u oblasti zaštite prirode, projekat doprinosi unapređenju sistema planiranja i sprovođenja mjera zaštite vrsta i njihovih staništa.
Through the preparation of an independent and comprehensive expert assessment of the conservation status of target species, the development of operational action plans, and the identification of potentially important Natura 2000 sites, the project will provide reliable and applicable data grounded in biogeographical criteria and best practices from EU Member States. Project activities will be implemented in parallel and in coordination with ongoing national efforts to establish the Natura 2000 network in Montenegro and to fulfil obligations under Negotiation Chapter 27 – Environment and Climate Change. The results will serve as an important expert basis for competent institutions in the further process of establishing the Natura 2000 ecological network, including the completion of Standard Data Forms (SDFs) and the improvement of species and habitat management.
At the same time, the project recognises the importance of engaging local communities and the wider public as a key prerequisite for the long-term and effective conservation and sustainable use of natural values. Through targeted information and education activities, the project will contribute to strengthening public understanding, trust and support for the protection of Natura 2000 species and sites, thereby creating conditions for the sustainable management of Montenegro’s natural heritage.
Specific objectives
1. To improve the availability, quality and applicability of data on the status of selected Natura 2000 and nationally protected herpetofauna species in Montenegro through the preparation of an independent and comprehensive expert analysis based on biogeographical, ecological and legal aspects, including the development of scientifically grounded recommendations for identifying potentially important Natura 2000 sites based on updated distribution data for threatened and vulnerable species.
2. To develop operational action plans for five selected Natura 2000 and nationally protected herpetofauna species, clearly defining conservation objectives, priority measures, responsible institutions and other relevant stakeholders, implementation timelines and indicative costs, thereby enabling more effective application of the legal framework and planned management of species and their habitats.
3. To increase the level of awareness and understanding among local communities and the wider public about the importance of the Natura 2000 network and nationally protected species through the implementation of a targeted online campaign, the organisation of educational workshops in local communities and schools, as well as public and artistic events, with the aim of strengthening public support for conservation measures and the long-term preservation of natural values.