Agency of Protected Areas
The Agency of Protected Areas (APA) operates under the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, established with the primary mission of protecting habitats and biodiversity of unique global importance, and stands as a guardian of Georgia`s natural treasures. Since its inception, the Agency has worked tirelessly to ensure that Georgia`s protected areas are preserved and safely transferred to future generations, maintaining the ecological balance and biodiversity essential to Georgia and the world.
Nowadays, the protected areas in the country cover a total area of 927,729 hectares, constituting approximately 13.3% of the nation`s overall territory. Central to the Agency’s responsibilities is managing diverse protected areas, precisely, it oversees 100 protected areas classified under various IUCN categories, including strict nature reserves, national parks, managed reserves, natural monuments, protected landscapes, and multiple-use areas. This extensive network is fundamental to Georgia`s environmental conservation strategy.
The Agency`s objectives include the long-term protection of Georgia`s biogeographic units, the restoration of natural ecosystems and landscapes, and safeguarding endangered species` genetic diversity. Additionally, the Agency is dedicated to preserving unique natural formations, protecting areas impacted by natural disasters, and maintaining crucial water formation and discharge areas.
A significant focus is also placed on conserving and restoring historical-cultural landscapes, serving both educational and scientific research purposes. The Agency ensures these invaluable objects are available for study and exploration, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Georgia`s natural and cultural wealth.
The APA actively promotes ecotourism through numerous initiatives, notably the development of hiking trails, a favorite activity among tourists seeking awe-inspiring experiences. With government backing, a network of trails spanning 1200 kilometers has been established, with an additional 700 kilometers slated for completion in 2023. Georgia now boasts 89 distinct hiking trails, catering to varying levels of difficulty and showcasing the country`s diverse landscapes.
Georgia`s abundance of caves also contributes to its allure, with Tetra and Navenakhevi caves opening to the public in 2022. Navenakhevi Cave dazzles visitors with its intricate stalactites and stalagmites. At the same time, Tetra Cave provides ideal conditions for wine aging, offering guests the opportunity to sample and purchase a variety of Imerelian wines, complemented by expert guidance from retrained guide sommeliers.
As the number of protected areas expands, so do efforts to preserve them, with the APA implementing innovative conservation measures, including a smart patrolling system that enhances biodiversity protection by enabling rangers to monitor and address violations efficiently.
Internationally, Georgia`s Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands achieved UNESCO World Heritage status in 2021, encompassing Mtirala and Kolkheti National Parks, and Kintrishi and Kobuleti Protected Areas. This recognition not only enhances the profile of these protected areas but also opens doors to new opportunities for sustainable development.
Country:
Georgia