Protected areas in Moldova to be managed according to European standards, based on new guide supported by Austria

A guide dedicated to the development of management plans for protected natural areas in the Republic of Moldova has been launched, providing a practical tool for administrators and expert teams involved in environmental protection. The document aims to ensure a coherent and well-founded approach to the planning process in the context of environmental changes.

The guide was developed based on an analysis of the administration system and institutional responsibilities in the field and clearly defines the work stages, the roles of the actors involved, and the structure of the management plans. It is intended both for the administrators of protected areas and for the specialists involved in coordinating the process.

Management plans are essential documents that describe the situation of a protected area, set conservation objectives, and define the actions needed to protect species, habitats, and other natural values. The new guide organizes the entire process into distinct stages – from preparation and data collection to evaluation, planning, public consultations, and final approval.

An important element of the document is the active involvement of stakeholders, including local communities, through the establishment of working groups and consultations at key stages. The proposed structure links the analysis of conservation values with the identification of pressures and threats, facilitating the setting of clear objectives and the evaluation of management results.

The format of the guide is flexible and can be applied to different categories of protected areas and sites intended for biodiversity conservation, using a unified structure.

The document was developed within a project dedicated to improving the management of protected areas in the Republic of Moldova, financed by the Austrian Development Agency and implemented by Biotica Ecological Society and EcoContact. The initiative is part of broader efforts for institutional strengthening, capacity building, and the restoration of natural habitats.