UNDP Resident Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina Renaud Meyer emphasized that preserving natural values represents an investment in a sustainable future.

“UNDP is proud to support institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina in strengthening nature protection and conserving biodiversity. This project will contribute to creating a strong expert foundation for the designation of new protected areas, as well as to the long-term improvement of natural resource management for the benefit of people and future generations,” said Meyer.

During the implementation of the project, detailed research will be conducted on the natural, biological, geological, and cultural-historical values of the future protected areas. This will include assessments of ecosystem conditions and endangered species, analysis of existing protection measures and threats, including the impacts of climate change, as well as the development of proposed zoning and management models in line with the Law on Nature Protection of the Federation of BiH and the guidelines of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

In addition to expert assessments and draft acts for the designation of protected areas, the project includes the establishment of spatial databases that will be integrated into the Nature Protection Information System of the Federation of BiH, as well as awareness-raising, education, and engagement activities with local communities and other stakeholders to ensure broad support for the establishment of new protected areas.

The project will be implemented by UNDP, which will select expert service providers through a public call to carry out the planned activities. The project will result in the development of expert assessments, proposed management models, and draft acts for the designation of the protected areas Ravna Vala on Bjelašnica Mountain, Čemerska Mountain – Misoča Canyon, and Čude Gorge in the Olovo area, creating the necessary conditions for their formal protection and preservation for future generations.