Georgia integrated coastal zone management

Project description and benefits

A world Bank funded project aimed at supporting the Georgian Government’s participation in the Black Sea Environment Programme (BSEP). The project will provide a strategic framework and concrete measures for the protection and sustainable development of Georgia’s coastal environment. The primary objective of the project will be the preservation of coastal ecosystem and biodiversity. This will be supported by raising regional and local public opinion and assisting in the development of local institutional capacity to meet the environmental protection requirements.

Services provided by Cefas

An initial assessment was conducted by the Cefas led team of the existing systems and institutional arrangements regarding water quality monitoring and assessment. This formed the basis for the design of a new biodiversity and water quality monitoring programme. The water quality component involves both near and offshore waters and includes microbiological, chemical and physical effects monitoring with an emphasis on human health. Associated with the implementation of the monitoring programme is the provision of specifications for sampling and analytical equipment. Guidance on sustainable fisheries management on inland lakes in Georgian National Parks was also provided. Public awareness and educational courses are to be initiated. A key component of the project is the design and running of training courses for staff of local environmental institutions. Disciplines covered include the establishment of environmental monitoring programmes, species identification techniques, data presentation and data interpretation.