Because of its mountainous landscape and diverse natural habitats, Georgia’s natural environment as well as our local communities currently are, and will continue to be, heavily impacted by climate change due to vertical shifting of climate zones. It is therefore necessary that the impact on Georgia’s ecosystems and species populations, as well as the ways in which they respond to climate change, is well-studied and understood. Determining the carbon accumulation potential of natural ecosystems, especially in respect to natural afforestation processes, is also vitally important.

Our efforts include:

• Evaluating the impact of climate change on species and habitats, particularly with respect to (i) forest fires and pathogens, (ii) vertical distribution of tree species, and (iii) shifting of forest and pasture boundaries.
• Assessing climate change impact on Georgia’s PA system and Emerald Network in accordance with EU recommendations.
• Analysing the carbon accumulation potential of Georgia’s natural ecosystems (forest, pastures and wetlands)