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By the end of 2026, the area of protected areas will exceed 16% of the country's territory
By the end of 2026, the area of protected areas will exceed 16% of the country's territory.
“Georgia's biodiversity and unique landscapes allow us to expand the network of protected areas. To achieve this, initial research is underway, focusing on ecological cover, landscapes, flora, fauna, and other vital characteristics. The involvement of local authorities and the resident community is of key importance in this process,” stated Tamar Khakhishvili, Deputy Chairperson of the Agency of Protected Areas.
Currently, work is progressing in several regions: Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti, Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, Kakheti, and Imereti. Establishing new protected areas and expanding existing ones will increase the total surface area of Georgia's protected areas by approximately 220,000 hectares, reaching a total of 1,150,000 hectares, which accounts for 16.4% of the country's territory.
According to Tamar Khakhishvili, the new protected areas will boost economic opportunities for the local population, particularly in tourism. As of today, approximately 700 hotels and 300 food service establishments are already operating in the vicinity of protected areas.