On June 27, the second regional workshop for the implementation of the PA-BAT+ (Protected Area Benefits Assessment Tool) methodology took place in Peshkopi. This innovative tool, developed by IUCN, serves as a means to evaluate local stakeholders’ perceptions of ecosystem services and the flow of benefits from Protected Areas.
The workshop saw the participation of local and regional institutions involved in the management of Protected Areas, local communities, NGOs, and other users of Lura Mali i Dejes National Park. Noteworthy attendees included representatives from AdZM Dibër and Lezhe, the municipalities of Mirditë and Dibër, the Regional Environment Agency of Tirana-Durrës-Dibër, local NGOs (such as Trees for Lura), ATA Center, community groups from Zall-Gjocaj, Kujri Center, farmers, and businesses operating within the park area.
In addition to the application of the PA-BAT+ methodology, the workshop provided a valuable platform for discussion among key actors for the effective management of Lura Mali i Dejes National Park. The discussions particularly focused on governance issues concerning the park, guided by the insights of the present experts: Irena Dule (legal expert), Olsi Lafe (cultural heritage expert), Besjana Shehu (urban planner), Klea Duro (biologist), and Kristi Bashmili (environmental researcher).
The goal of these discussions was to better understand and protect the ecosystem services provided by the park. Alongside the Divjakë-Karavasta and Butrint National Parks, Lura Mali i Dejes National Park will serve as a model for benefit-based ecosystem assessment.
This workshop was part of the “SMART Balkans – Civil Society for Shared Society in the Western Balkans” regional project, implemented by the Centar za promociju civilnog društva (CPCD), the Center for Research and Policy Making (CRPM), and the Institute for Democracy and Mediation (IDM), with financial support from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (NMFA).
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About AOS:
Albanian Ornithological Society (AOS) is dedicated to the protection and preservation of Albania’s natural heritage, focusing on the conservation of bird species and their habitats. Through research, advocacy, and community engagement, AOS strives to promote sustainable management of natural resources and protected areas across the country.