I

ALBANIA

/

CONVENTION DN BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY

NATIONAL REPORT

BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN

Sponsor: Glokal Environmental Facility (GEF)

Tll ana November, 1999

Blodlverslty Strategy and Action Plan

Prepared by the Alliance "The Institute of Biological Research & Museum of NaturalSciences"

Editor: Ferdinand Bego & Mynyr KoniPictures: Ferdinand Bego, Taulant Blno, Mynyr Konl

Layout: Altin Allko

Copyright© 1999 by The National Environmental Agency (NEA). Ail rightsreserved. No part of this book may be reproduced without the permission of TheNational Environmental Agenc)

LIST OF ACRONYMS

AS Academy of SciencesBG Botanical Garden

CBD Convention on Biological Diversity

CCCH Convention on Climate ChangeCEP Committee for Environmental Protection

CITES Convention on the Illegal Trade of the Endangered SpeciesCTD Council of Tourism DevelopmentDAP Department of Environmental Protection within the GDFP

DCTA District Council of Territorial Adjustment

EAP Environmental Action ProgramEECONET European Ecological NetworkEIA Environment Impact AssessmentEU European UnionFPRI Forest and Pasture Research Institute

FRI Fishery Researc?_ InstituteGDFP General Directorate of Forest and Pastures

GEF Global Environmental FacfiityGTZ German Technic;ti Assistance

IBA Important Bird Area

IBR Institute of Blolo ¢lcal ResearchINC Institute for NattLre Conservation

IUCN World Conservat on Union

MAF Ministry of Agric'llture and FoodMNS Museum of Natural Sciences

NCNB National Councfi for Nature and BiodlversityNCTA National Councfi of Territorial AdjustmentNCW National Council of Waters

NEA National Environmental Agency

NGO Non governmental OrganisationNEAP National Environmental Action PlanNSI National Seed In:_titute

NUPI National Urban Planning InstitutePA Protected Area

PEMU Project Environmental Management Unit

PESBLD Pan-European Slrategy on Biological and Landscape DiversityRAC / SPA Regional Activity Centre / Specially Protected Areas (Tunis)REA Regional Enviror mental Agency

REC Regional Enviro_ mental Centre for Central and Eastern Europe

RNPA Representative Network of the Protected AreasSCBD Secretariat of thc Convention on Biological Diversity

SNV Netherlands Dev,._lopment OrganisatlonUNDP United Nations Development Program

UNEP United Nations Environmental ProgramUNO United Nations OrganisationUSAID United States Ag_ncy for International DevelopmentWB World BankWCTT World Council fo; Travel and TourismWWF World Wildlife Ft nd

Contents

Page

Executivesummary 8

Part One BIODIVERSITY IN ALBANIA 22

Chapter i CONVENTION ON BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY AND 22BIODIVERSITY IN ALBANIA

INTRODUCTION 22THE STATE OF BIODIVERSITY 23ALBANIA AND ITS BIOGEOGRAPHYCAL IMPORTANCE 25

HABITATANDECOSYSTEMDIVERSITY 25SPECIESDIVERSITY 27

GENETICDIVERSITY 27

SPECIES OF ECONOMIC VALUE 29AESTHETIC AND RECREATIONAL VALUES 29

BIODIVERSITYANDTOURISM 29

Special Features of the Biodiversity 30ENDEMIC / SUBENDEMIC TAXA 30

LINKS BETWEEN ALBANIA'S AND NEIGHBOURING COUNTRY ECOSYSTEMS 30

THE IMPORTANCE OF ALBANIA FOR MIGRATORY SPECIES 31THE IMPORTANCE OF ALBANIA FOR GLOBALLY THREATENED SPECIES 31

CHAPTER 2 THE THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY IN ALBANIA 34

THESOURCEOFTHREATS 34IMPACTS ON B1ODIVERSITY ' 39

CHAPTER 3 THE STATUS OF BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION IN 41

ALBANIA

LEGISLATION 41

THEINSTITUTIONALFRAMEWORK 42

THE CONVENTIONSANDINTERNATIONALPROGRAMS 45THEEXISTINGNATIONALPROGRAMS 48

IN-SITU AND EX-SITU CONSERVATION 49

Part Two IDENTIFICATION OF PRIORITY ISSUES 54

CHAPTER 4 THE TOPICS AND ISSUES 54

INTRODUCTION 54STRATEGICPRINCIPLES 54

THECRITERIA 55

ISSUES / pRIORITY TOPICS 55

HABITATANDSPECIESACTIONPLANS 56

Part Three THE BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN: PRIORITY ACTIVITIES 59AND ACTIONS

CHAPTER 5 THE NEED FOR CHANGE AND ACTION 59

INTEGRATION OF BIOLOGICAL AND LANDSCAPE DIVERSITY WITH ACTMTIES IN 59OTHER SECTORS

EXPANDING AND STRENGTHENING THE NETWORK OF PROTECTED AREAS AND 67ESTABLISHING THE ECOLOGICAL NETWORK

BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION OUTSIDE THE PROTECTED AREAS 70

NEED FOR EX-SITU CONSERVATION 70

NEED FOR FURTHERRESEARCH AND MONITORING 70

INFORMATION USE AND MANAGEMENT 71

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXTENSION SERVICE PROGRAMMES / INCREASING 72AWARENESS OF THE PUBLIC, POLICY-MAKERS, AND DECISION-MAKERS

CHAPTER 6 THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE BIODIVERSITY ACTION 75PLAN

REFORM AND INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING 75

LEGISLATION 75

INSTITUTIONALSTRENGTHENING 75

DEVELOPMENT OF INTER-SECTOR CO-ORDINATION MECHANISMS 76DECENTRALIZATION 76

THE NEEDS AND THE ROLE OF THE NGOs AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES 77

COST-BENEFIT ANALYSES OF BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY 77INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATION 77STRATEGY FOR BSAP IMPLEMENTATION 79

List of Figures

Figure i. Physical Map of Albania 24Figure 2. Organograrn on the interrelations and links between 44Institutions/structures in correlation with the biodiversity issues in therepublic of Albar_taFigure 3. Organogram of structures related with Biodlversity study and 46MonitoringFigure 4. Map of the Existing Protected Areas of Albania 52Figure 5. Map of the Proposed Network of Protected Area of Albania 69Figure 6. Functional Scheme for the Implementation of the CBD and BSAP 74in Albania

Boxes

Box 1. Habitat Types in Albania 26Box 2, The Number of Species in Albania 28Box 3. What is biological diversity?. 32Box 4. Why we should protect the blodlverslty? 33

Box 5. The Management Categories of Protected Areas 50Box 6. National Environmental Agency Projects for Nature Conservation 53Financed by International OrganizationsBox 7. The Working Groups for BSAP Implementation 57Box 8. What should be the Content of the Action Plans for Species and 58Habitats?

Box 9. The EC Agro-Environment Regulation {EEC 2078/92) 60Box 10. Main Elements of a National Energy Strategy 61Box 11. The Principles of Sustainable Forestry Policy 62Box 12. Main Principles for Responsible Fisheries 63Box 13. Main Elements of a Sustainable Policy for Transport 64Box 14. Environmental Guidelines for Tourism Adopted by the World Travel 65and Tourism Council (WTTC)

Box 15. ProtectedAreas and Sustainabillty 68

ANNEXES

A List of the Experts for the Preparation of the BSAPB- 1 Proposed Representative Network of the Protected Areas for AlbaniaB-2 Summary Statistics on the Network of the Protected Areas for AlbaniaC List of endemic/subendemic taxa

D List of Globally Threatened Species in Albania

E- 1 List of the Species for which the Species Action Plan will be Prepared within 1-2

yearsE-2 List of the Species for which thc Species Action Plan will be Prepared within 3-5

yearsF- 1 List of Habitats for which the Habitat Action Plans will be Prepared within 1-2 yearsF-2 List of Habitats for which the Habitat Action Plans will be Prepared within 3-5 years

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

INTRODUCTIONcombined with steep cliffs creates ideal

1 The Convention on Biological Diversity conditions for maintaining and protecting(CBD), was signed by Albania in ,January a large number of ancient species, which1994. Although faced with the difficulties are both endemic and subendemlc. Thereof a country in transition, Albania has are 27 endemic and 160 subendemicendcavoured to fulfil its obligations under species of vascular plants, which have athe Convention. In 1998, the Albanian special protection importance for thegovernment charged the National country.Environmental Agency (thc former

Committee for Environmental Protection) 5 The high diversity of ecosystems andto prepare the Biodivcrslty Strategy and habitats (marine and coastal ecosystems,Action Plan (BSAP) as a step towards wetlands, river deltas, sand dunes, lakes,implementing the Convention. Albania rivers, Mediterranean shrubs, broadleaf,has been, and continues to be, a conifers and mixed forests, alpine andparticipant In European and regional subalpine pastures and meadows, andinitiatives related with the CBD, especially high mountain ecosystems) offers a richin the PAN-European Strategy on species variety of plants and animals. InBiological and Landscape Diversity Albania, there are around 3,200 species of(PESBLD). vascular plants and 756 vertebrate

species. Approximately 30% of all2 In Albania, the main objectives for European floras occur in Albania. The

implementing the CBD and PESBLD are: high Albanian forests maintain thecommunities of large mammals such as

(i) protection and improvement of wolf, bear, lynx, and wild goat, and alsobiological and landscape diversity; the characteristic bird communities,

(ii) incorporation of the principles and which are associated with virgin forests.policies required for sustainablebiodiversity use and management; 6 Coastal lagoons and large lakes insideand the country, are important areas --

(iii) promoting sustainable development especially for wintering migratory birds.for present and future generations. There are annually met around 70

waterfowl and waterbird species with a

3 Thc World Balk, through the Global total population of 180,000 individuals inEnvironment Facility (GEF), provided Albania during the winter. Albania is alsofinancial support to the NEA for preparing an important crossroad for the migrationthe BSAP. As part of this process, an of birds, bats, and insects.Advisory Board was created and headedby the Chairman of the NEA. 7 There are some 91 globally threatenedSupervision, consulting, and co- species found in Albania. These includeordination were the duties of this Board. the Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus),

Technical specialists, university slaff, and Pygmy Cormorant (Phalacrocoraxrepresentatives of central and local pygmeus), and the Sturgeon (Aclpenser

governmental and non-governmental sturio) for which Albania is a country oforganisations participated in the particularly critical importance.preparation and drafting of the BSAP.

8 The landscape diversity inside thecountry derives from natural

THE IMPORTANCE OF BIODIVERSITY characteristics and Albania's ancient

4 Although a small country, Albania is origins and the associated humandistinguished for its rich biological and activity. Traditional agriculture and stocklandscape diversity. This diversity is farming have been developed according toattributable to the country's geographic the natural characteristics of the country,position as well as ge)logical, and are the major factors, whichhydrological, climatic, and soil mid relief determine the landscape physiognomy infactors. The mountainous terrain those areas, which are characterised by

autochthonous species. A number of local · Loss of species or the threat of their &autochthonous livestock and plant extinction; and Ispecies have existed In Albania over the · Damage and erosion of geneticyears. They represent very Important resources.heritage values for protecting and

improving the quality and productivity of 11 Although a low number of species hasagricultural and livestock products, become extinct during this past century,

the rate of loss of Albania's blodlversity

WHY BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION IS during the last 50 years is believed to beIMPORTANT increasingly high. Moreover, insufficient

knowledge and studies on a wide range of9 There are many reasons for the flora and fauna limit an accurateimportance of biodlversity protection in historical evaluation of the biodlversityAlbania; (i) we live by using the plants status of Albania. Two species of plantsand animals found in our surrounding and four species of mammals haveenvironment; {11) it is our duty towards become extinct; and meanwhile 17 bird

future generations to ensure a nature as species no longer nest in the country'srich as we inherited it; (iii) any living territory. During the last 25 years,organism has the right to live, those living approximately 122 species of vertebratesand evolving over the past thousands and (27 mammals, 89 birds, and 6 fish) andmillions of years may disappear very fast, four species of plants are expected to havebut they can not be recreated; (iv) a large lost more than 50% of their population.number of plants axe known for their The number of rare and endangeredmedicinal values, and their number may species of plants and animals is high andeven increase in the future with expected to increase.technological advances; (v) wild plantsand animals play an important role in 12 In Albania, the major types ofproviding the sustenance for cultivated endangered ecosystems and habitats areplants and domestic animals; {vi) natural not only coastal [sand dunes, river deltas,biological processes protect lite and alluvial forests, lagoons, and coastalenvironment on our planet; (vii) nature lakes) and marine (medium and

that offers high diversity also has greater infrallttoral level), but also Inland ones,potential to be appreciated for tourism Including alpine pastures and meadows,development and for its aesthetic and continental and glacier lakes, andrecreational values; and (viii) the broadleaf and coniferous forests.

country's economic prosperity can only beachieved through the protection and 13 The high rate of population growthsustainable use of its natural and (the population has almost tripled duringbiological resources, the last 50 years) has been followed by

the progressive increase of human

RISKS AND ADVERSE IMPACTS ON impacts and disturbances on theBIODIVERISTY country's nature and biodiverslty. These

pressures are expected to increase in the10 Economic development over lhe past future due to the relatively free and

50 years was based upon agri(ultural, uncontrolled movement of the populationindustrial and tourism devel)pment, from rural to urban areas. Increasing

increasing use of transportation and urbanisation will most adversely affect theurbanisation, and exploitation of forest, coastal and littoral ecosystems, which arefishing, and other natural resources. All more ecologically fragile.this development has had its impacts

upon biological and landscape div,zrsity in 14 The intensive agricultural practices ofAlbania. Some of the major adverse the past, combined with the presentimpacts have been: activities of a free market economy, have

damaged and are damaging to the native· Habitat loss and fragmentatlor_; species. These practices have also

· Damage and degradation of _tabltats reduced people's interest in protectingand ecosystems; and improving the autoehthonous variety

· Disturbance and maltreatment of of plants and animals.wildlife;

15 it is observed that agriculture is Meanwhile, individnals and the privatereturning back to the traditional extensive sector are focusing on maximislngpractices due to the lack of inveshnents earnings and short-term profits, so theafter the privatisation of land. This combined effects have negative impactsphenomenon has reduced the impact on on biodiversity, There have been efforts tobiodiversity, but it is believed that the Improve the legislation and administrative

agriculture sector will use more intensive structure, but illegal wood cutting, andpractices in the future, which will have illegal and uncontrolled fishing andincreasingly adverse impaels on hunting persist.biodiversity - especially in the westerncoastal plains. IN-SITU AND EX-SITU CONSERVATION

16 Although a large part of the industrial 21 In-situ conservation of nature andsector is not functioning at the moment, it biodiversity began only in the second halfis expected that this will not be She case of this century in Albania. Protected areasas economic development and growth were established, and followed by theincrease in the future. The effects of approval of laws and regulations for theindustrialisation will adversely impact the protection of endangered species of plantsbiodiversity of the country, particularly in and animals. Although progress has beenthe coastal areas, which will have a made, there are still problems which need

higher number of urban centres, to be addressed such as:

17 Tourism and transportation are two · Lack of a national strategy for theother factors, which will soon have an protection of nature;

adverse impact on biodiversity, on,'_eagain · Existing gaps in legislation andparticularly in the coastal areas, institutional weaknesses;

· Limited number of Protected Areas

18 The exploitation of forests was (5.8% of the country's territory);common in the past due to the absence of · Lack of management plans for thealternative fuel resources for cooking and major part of the existing Protectingheating. These practices have had adverse Areas;effects upon forest biodiverslty, which * Lack of means and financial resourceshave been further exacerbated by existing for effective administration of the

forestry practices and the lack of a clear Protected Areas;

national strategy for the protecton and * Insufficient number of personnel andsustainable development of forei ts. The their lack of training: andpopulations of large mammals have · Lack of practices for protectingparticularly suffered in the forest areas of endangered species of plants andAlbania. animals outside the Protected Areas.

19 There are no discernible effects on 22 Until recently, there were no practicesmarine and wetlands biodiversity due to for ex-situ conservation of endangeredpast fishing and aquaculture practices, plants and animals. However, a seedHowever, the consequences are expected bank for crops was recently establishedto increase in the future due to recent near the National Institute of Seeds (NIS).changes in fishing practices (e.g.,

increased fishing with dynamite) a_nd the EXISTING NATIONAL PROGRAMSforeseen development of the fishery sector

in the future. 23 The process of preparing the Strategyand Action Plan on Biodiversity {BSAP)

20 The transition period that began in built on previous acnvities such as the1991 has been marked by political National Environment Action Plan

instability - especially during the last 2-3 (Committee for Environmental Protection

years. Some of the factors influencing - CEP, 1993), Environmental Strategy ofthis destabilisation have been thc lack of Albania (World Bank - WB, 1993).,

appropriate legislation, lack of Ecological Survey of High Forests inimplementation of existing la_ rs and Albania (1995), Coastal Zone Managementregulations, and the ineffectiveness of the Plan (CZMP, 1996), Specially Protectedexisting institutional str_ctures. Areas (UNEP, RAC/SPA, 1995), and NGO

Nature Conservation Strategy in Albania existing protection measures; priority(REC. IUCN, MilieuKontakt, 1997). Their problems which require solutions tofindings and recommendations were enhance biodlversity protection, speciesincorporated into the BSAP. distribution and habitat size; and a list of

measures which need to be undertaken.IDENTIFICATION OF PRIORITIES

28 Although it Is the government's24 The following criteria were used for responsibility to prepare and implementidentifying the priorities for action plans the action plans on species and habitats,and solutions relevant to species and it Is proposed that a partnership led bytheir habitats: various co-ordinators for each species and

habitats be responsible. Responsibilities· Endangered species and habitats with would include facilitating, co-ordinating,

global, regional, and national and promoting the submission andimportance; Implementationof action plans.

· Habitats containing endemic speciesor high levels of biodlversity; THE NEED FOR CHANGE AND ACTION

· Species or habitats risking totalextinction: 29 The implementation of the Biodlverslty

· Species or habitats which would yield Convention can be achieved only throughlocal or national economic benet'_ts; acceptance and reference to the objectives

· Species or habitats with local or and principles for protection. This willnational education benefits; include engaging in practices, which

· Endangered species or habitats which promote sustainable development In allcould be better protected through sectors impacting on biodlversity such asmore suitable policies and use; and agriculture, forestry, fishing, industry,

· Actions which could yield viable urban planning, transport, and tourism.economic, ecological, and social In the meantime, the "polluter pays"benefits, principle and the appropriate

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

25 These criteria, together with the procedures should be enforced In allpresent level of knowledge on national sectors.biodlversity status and the opinion andconsensus of the country's leading 30 The protection of nature withinProtected Areas should be considered aszoologists and botanists, were used toselect the plant species, animal species, an important instrument for in-situand habitat types which need to be conservation of blodlverslty. It IsIncluded as priorities In the action plans, recommended as a short-term objective

that 14% of the country's territory bedivided into different categories of26 The selected species and habitats are

presented in two lists based on their Protected Areas. with 25% as the long-importance and the level of danger: (i) term objective for the year 2020. Thisspecies/habitats action plans which process will require greater support for

environmental protection inside theshould be undertaken within 1-2 years;and (ii) species/habitats action plans General Directorate of Forestry andwhich should be undertaken within 3-5 Pastures (GDFP).

years. The first list of short-termpriorities includes 80 species/taxa - 42 31 Another Important aspect ofvertebrates. 26 invertebrates, and 12 blodlverslty management is its protection

plant species, while the longer-term and sustainable development outside ofpriorities include 143 species/taxa - 95 Protected Areas. This is especiallyvertebrates, 31 invertebrates, and 17 Important in Albania because of theplant species, limited number of present and proposed

protected areas. Without the appropriate

27 The action plans for species and measures, a large percentage of fauna,habitats should include: the present especially birds and mammals, willsituation of species or habitats; the major struggle to survive.factors influencing the loss or decrease ofpopulations; a short description of

32 Ex-sltu conservation of blodiversity is are another priority for Albania. and allalso a priority because of increasing public institutions, NGOs, and the privateanthropogenic pressures upon nature, sector should be involved in them wherewhich threaten to increase the number of possible. Advisory services on biodiversityendangered and extinct species. The should be developed to help land usersestablishment of genetic banks is required understand the benefits of Improvedfor ex-situ conservation, first through the biodiversity protection and management.establishment of a Gene Bank for plants. The Regional Environment Agencies

(REAs) under the National Environmental

33 The further elaboration of scientific Agency [NEA) may well be the mostresearch is also a high priority for appropriate vehicle for providing theseAlbania. Currently, there is a lack of advisory services.studies for different groups of fauna(especially marine groups) and flora IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ACTION(especially low plants such as algae, PLANlichens, and moss). The lack of financial

support continues to be an obstacle for 38 Institutional reform and strengtheningconducting the necessary research. In are an important step for implementingthe future, improved co-ordination among the BSAP, and this should bescientific institutions will be necessary, as complemented with an improved legalwell as collaboration with foreign system and commensurate lawinstitutions and the active involvement of enforcement efforts.NGOs.

39 Two important actions need to be34 Improving information use and taken in the legal field in order tomanagement is a high priority for harmonise existing and future legislation.improving blodlversity management in First, the draft law on Nature ProtectionAlbania. To improve the collection and and Blodiverslty should be approved as

management of data and information it soon as possible by the parliament.willbe necessary to: Second, relevant bylaws and

implementing regulations should follow· Use existing data and information to this new law to speed up implementation

the maximum extent possible; and harmonlsatlon.

· Improve and standardlse existing datacollection and reporting; 40 Another priority is the strengthening of

· Set up a national database for governmental institutions responsible forbiodiversity; and biodiversity inventories, management,

· Develop an information network with and monitoring. Better support should beopen access for all locally interested provided for the NEA and the REAs, aspersons, well as for the Environmental Project

Management Unit responsible for the35 The recent establishment of the Albania Forestry Project. In this way they

Ministry of Information should be used as will be able to fulfil their responsibilitiesan opportunity to offer more possibilities on environmental protection in general,for developing information programs on and biodiversity in particular. As part ofbiodiversity, the institutional reform process, it will be

necessary to establish as soon as possible

36 Because the role of the public in the Institute of Nature Conservation (INC)biodiversity protection and management which would provide qualified help in theis critical, environmental education and area of nature conservation and

public awareness should be improved, protection as well as sustainablePublic participation, particularly at the development of biodiversity.local level, should be encouraged throughvarious projects and programs aimed at 41 The process of local autonomy andimproving biodiversity planning and deeentralisation is part of the democraticmanagement, process. The governmental authorities at

the local level should be responsible for

37 Training and qualification programs sustainable management of nature andfor biodiversity study and management biological resources in their areas, and for

establishing the methods for avoiding long-term uneconomic practicesimplementing the CBD and BSAP at the and policies. These analyses must beregional and local levels, included as a basis for future

conservation practices and policies.42 Co-ordination across sectors also

needs to be improved. It is recommended THE STRATEGY FOR IMPLEMENTINGas a first step to establish a National BSAPCouncil on Biodiversity withrepresentatives from the central and local 45 The following will be part of thegovernment, university staff, and NGOs Implementation process of the BSAP:operating in the area of environmentprotection. The Secretariat on Biodiversity · Dialogue and co-ordination process;(SB) should be established within the · Identification and mobfiisation of

NEA. Its responsibilities will include financlalresources;program co-ordination, identification and · Identifying economic barriers tomobillsation of financial resources for biodiversityprotection;

implementing the CBD and BSAP, and · Finding and Implementing theother administrative duties, appropriate mechanisms to realise the

benefits of protection; and43 NGO and local communities' · Technical support for projects.participation in biodiversity planning,

management, legal issues, and monitoring 46 The agencies and institutionsshould be encouraged as part of the responsible for implementing andprocess of implementing the CBD and monitoring the CBD and BSAP are theBSAP in Albania. NEA, REAs, National Council for Nature

Biodiversity (NCNB), and the country44 Biodiversity protection has its costs, Secretary for the Convention onbut at the same time there are benefits to Blodiversity (SCB) within the NEA.be derived. Cost/benefit analysis shouldbe used as an effective mechanism for

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PART ONE

BIODIVERSITY IN ALBANIA

CHAPTER 1CONVENTION ON BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY AND BIODIVERSITY INALBANIA

INTRODUCTION

Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan1.1 The Convention on Blodiversity (BSAP) in order to implement the(CBD) was an important part of the Convention. The NEA Is responsibleEarth Summit in Rio de daneiro, for Albania's role in the regional and1992. Albania signed this Convention European 'initiatives and programs inon January 5, 1994. response to the CBD, in particular in

the Pan-European Strategy of1.2 Article 1 explains the objectives of Biological and Landscape Diversitythe Convention as follows: (PESBLD).

The objectives of this Convention, 1.5 The goal of the implementation ofto be pursued in accordance with the CBD ar/d the PESBLD in Albaniaits relevant provisions, are the is:conservation .of biological diversity,the sustainable use of its Protection and improvement of thecomponents and the fair and country's biological and landscapeequitable sharing of the benefits diversity, and the integration ofarising out of the Utlllsation of sustainable use and managementgenetic resources, including by policies into other sectors, aimingappropriate access to. genetic to achieve sustainable development

resources and by appropriate for the future generations.transfer of relevant technologies,taking into account all rights over 1.6 With the financial support of thethose resources and to World Bank through the Globaltechnologies, and by appropriate Environmental Facility (GEF), a grantfunding, was made available to the NEA to

prepare the PEBLS. For the1.3 In accordance with article 6a of preparation of the PEBLS, an Advisorythe CBD, Albania must accomplish its Panel chaired by the NEA's Chairmanobligations in regard to: was created. The Panel was

responsible for the supervision and

Develop national strategies, plans co-ordination of the work. Staff fromor programmes for the conservation the scientific and academicand sustainable use of biological Institutions, government and localdiversity or adapt for this purpose institutions, and NGOs working onexisting strategies, plans or nature and the environment issuesprogrammes which shall reflect, was involved in the process of iinter alia, the measures set out in preparation and discussion of thethis Convention PEBLS.

1.4 Albania, taking into account the 1.7 This report p_esents thedifficulties of the transition period, viewpoints and important issues to behas taken the responsibfiity to considered by the Government as aaccomplish the obligations of the basic instrument for developing aConvention. The National long-term program from 2000-2015.

Environmental Agency (NEA), whichwas formerly the Committee for 1.8 In the remainder of Chapter 1, theEnvironmental Protection (CEP), has state of blodlverslty in Albania lsbeen asked by the Albanian reviewed, focusing on what isGovernment to prepare the biodiversity, and why it is important

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for sustainable development. Chapter area. Within Albania there are2 explains the existing and potential tectonic zones which during theirdangers to blodiversity, while chapter geological development changed' to3 'reviews the state of biodiverslty tectonic and nco-tectonicprotection and management in configurations.Albania. Chapter 4 explains thecriteria used for the identification of 1.13 The Albanian relief is mostly hillythe important issues and ac:ions to and mountainous. There is a diversityimplement the CBD and the PESBLD of morphological formations andin Albania. An important part of this slopes. It has a young age since thechapter is the detailed information on Albanian relief originated during thestrategic steps, the content of the Miocene Age. At the beginning of thespecies and habitat action plans, and Quaternary Age, the Adriatic lowlandthe identlltcaClon of the target issues and other inland lowlands wereand working groups, attached to the continental part of

Albania, but thc existing relief shape1.9 Chapters 5 and 6 explain the was formulated during the Pliocenebiodiversity action plan mud the Period. The evolution of the Albanianmeasures to be taken in order to relief continues to this day. Theimplement the CBD and PF.BLS in highest point is 2751m above sea levelAlbania. The annexes illustrate the (Korabi Mountain) and the lowest one

importance of biodiverslty in _,lbania. is 8 meters below sea level (the formerand the need to take measures to Terbufi Marsh). The medium altitude

enhance it. The Represented Wetwork of the country is 708m above the seaof the Protected Areas (RNPA) receives level. The altitude declines movingspecial attention in Annex B. The list from the east to the west of theof experts and institutions responsible country, and this determines thefor the preparation of this r_port is conditions of the climate, land. andpresented In A. vegetation.

l',q.E STATE OP E_OPIVERSI'I ?. 1.14 The climate of Albania is diverse.It has four major climatic zones and

1.10 Although Albania is a small 13 sub-zones, which contribute to thecountry, it is very rich in biological country's rich biological diversity.and landscape diversity. This is due to

its geographical position, geological 1.15 Albania is well known for its richfactors, hydrology, climate, amd soft and complex hydrographic networkconditions, composed of rivers, lakes, wetlands.

groundwater, and seas. The main1.11 Albania Is a Mediterranean rivers are the Drini, Buna, Mati.

country on the Balkan Penii.sula in Shkumbini, Semani, Vjosa, Erzeni.the south of Europe. The ,_lbanian Ishmi, Bistrlca, and Pavllo, and theircoastline is 476 km long, _md the courses have an important effect onAdriatic and Ionian Seas have a great the country's coastal biodiversity.impact on the climate, fio_ a, and About 247 natural lakes of differentfauna in the country, types and dimensions, and a

considerable number of artificial

1.12 Albania is part )f the lakes, are located inside the country.Mediterranean Alps in tt,e line Based on their origin, they are dividedDinarido-Albanido-Helenid, _md is into tectonic lakes (4), glacier lakescharacterlsed by a diversity of rock (134), carstie lakes (94), and fluvialformations since Palaeozol( time. lakes (15). Among the more importantThere are more sedimentacy and ones are the transboundary lakes ofvolcanic formations, while Shkodra, Ohrid, and Prespa- themetamorphic ones are less e_mmon, most important and largest ones inOther formations such as alluvial, the Balkans with European andproluvial, koluvial, and deluvial international significance. In theglaciers, marshes, and lakes, are coastal area of Albania there areyounger and from the Quaternary wetlands such as Karavasta, Narta.

.24

Patoku, Vilunl, Kune-Vainl, Orikuml, Alluvialforest(Vaine, Lezha)

and others, with a total area of150kin2.

1.16 Albania is an important

migration route for ,flora anc fauna.The main elements of the ._lbanian

flora are Mediterranean (24%), Balkan

(22%), European (18%), and Eurastan Castanetum(Oaf_-Molle) ](14%). I

Corological spectrum of theFlora of Albania

EuroasianEuropean Others

CultivatedCost_opoliteEuro_iberiar

Balkani Mixed Beech and Pine ForestMediterrar can

The Eurasian, l tolartlc,Mediterranean, and Balkan elements

dominate the faunistic spectrum ofthe country.

Sub-alpine Meadow (Biz_)

1.17 Albania is well known for its highdiversity of ecosystems and Irabttats.Within its territory there are rmritimeecosystems, coastal zones, lakes,rivers, evergreen and bcoadleafbushes, broadleaf forests, pine forests,alpine and sub-alpine pastu:'es andmeadows, and high mountain Land Uaeecosystems.

1.18 Albania is rich in for,_.st and Forestspasture resources. The fores[s cover1,030,000 ha or 36% of the c_untry'sterritory, and the pastures about

400,000 ha or 15%. Appro_dmately A_ablola_60% (244,000 hal of the pastures are

alpine and sub-alpine pastures andmeadows. The forests and the

pastures have a diversity of types,formations, and plant and animalcommunities.

25

Box

Habitat Types In Albania

Habitat Type Habitat subtype Number of communltle;

Coastal communities Marine communities 19Marine Wetlands 19

Coastal sandy 13Dimes and seaside's

Rockycoast 4Non-maritime water Coastal wetlands

Sweetwaters 36

Running watersRivers and springs 7

Bushes Temperate heath grove 53Bushes 23

GEwriga 16PseudomakJa 1Terrain 2Gorse terrain ?

FrLganat 2G] ass terraln's 17Termofile forest 2 associationsSi:es with Mediterranean

grass 5Mcditerranean -Mount ain

grass terrain's 6DIy grass terrain's 6Al'sine and sub-alpinegr tss terrain's 48

Forests Br oadleaf forest 141C( nffer forest 31Fcrests and bushes 30

Ex ergreen andTemperate broad-leaveforest 6

Pond water vegetation Rush formation 25Rocky formations Rc,cky slope 15

Rccky gaps 12Cf.ves

Other habitat types: Crop lands: Fruit-tree plantations; Vineyards; Low forests;Urban parks; Towns, villages or industrial sites; Mines

26

1.19 Along the coastline of thecountry there are many ecosystems ofsignificance in the Mediterraneanregion such as lagoons, wetlands,sand dunes, river deltas, hydrophlland hygrophfi forests. Litto::al andinfralittoral communities of

Mediterranean origin along t?e rockycoast are quite diverse aatd wellpreserved.

Wetland along the coast

SPECIES D_VERSITY

1.22 Information on biodiversity in

Albania is generally lacking. Thereare stfil flora and fauna taxonomic

groups, which are unknown or havenot been studied. The information on

well-known taxonomic groups is

1.20 The lakes and rivers are also lacking in terms of species. The

important for the biological and number of species shown in Box 2 islandscape diversity of the country, larger, and in some groups several

times larger, from that known to date.

Vegetation along the Shkodra L_lie1.23 Taking Into account the existinginformation, Albania has a rich

diversity of flora.and fauna with about3,200 flora species and 756 fauna

species, respectively. Approximately30% of European flora occur inAlbania, and the high forests ofAlbania are the habitat for large gamesuch as the brown bear, wild boar,

1.21 There is a diversity of lanclscapes and others, and also of fowl species,in Albania due to its natural which flourish in virgin forests. The

characteristics and long hL, tory of rich marine flora and faunapopulation and human activities, communities are an Indicator of theTraditional agriculture and high level of preservation and qualitystockbreeding developed in the of these communities In Albania.countryside, in accordano; withnatural conditions, have bten the GENETIC DIVERSITY

major factors determining theAlbanian landscape, where indigenous 1.24 A number of autochthonouselements are not missing, breeds of cattle and crops exist in the

country. About 30 species of cropsSalty land vegetation with Sallconia are native to Albania. There are nine

autochthonous breeds of goats andfive for sheep. This is an important

heritage for the protection andimprovement of the production andthe quality of the agricultural andanimal husbandry.

27

Box

The Number of Species in Albania

Group Species in Species in World SpeciesAlb_mia Europe

Bacteria Un}_own Unknown >4,000Viruses Unknown, Unknown >5,000Protozoa Unlqnown Unknown >40,000Algae 600 Unknown >40,000

Fungi 800 16,000 >70,000Ferns 45 145 >12,000Bryophytes 500 10,000 > 14,000Lichens 400 1200 > 17,000Flowring plants 320 D 11415 250.000MoUusca 520 (700) Unknown 80,000Insects 4,000 (14,000) 40,000 1,0bO,000Crustaceans 115 150 {Adriatic 8,000 ,(Decapoda) sea)Echinodermata 46 94 5,650

(Mediterranean)

Dish 313 (350) 618 32,000-40,000(Mediterranean)

Marine Fish 249 Unknown 23,000-30,000Freshwater Fish 64 Unknown 8,500Amphibians 15 (16) 62 4.000Reptiles 36 (38) 123 6.500Birds 323(335) 450 9,881Mammals 70 (34) 200 4,327

lote: The number in parentheses indicates the number of the expected species to)ccur in Albania

Breed "Syska" of Pollsl areaGoat Femal Male Tendencybreeds e

Dragoblja 6500 350 IVellpoJa Unknown IHasi 15000 377 IMat! 9500 240 I

Capore _22176 479 SShyta Unknown IDukat/ 20310 690 IMuzhak/_ 42096 1480 I

Llqenas 10000 500 ISheepbreeds

Breed "Dhla e Matit" Bardhoke 19740 880 IShkodran 13450 560 I

Ruda 29400 950 !

i Recka 19409 8100 I6

Syska 110 5 I(Lara ePollsit)

Note: I=lncreaslng; S=stable

28

SPECIES OF ECONOMIC VALUE beauty of nature increase theappreciation for nature and the

1.25 The medical, industrial, _md feed countryside.

value of plants and animals is wellknown. There are 300 types of Iphlctldes podallrlusmedical and aromatic plants, whichrepresent about 10% of the i_lbanianflora. In the future the nu:_ber of

plants with medical or aromaiic valuewill likely increase.

Rosa canlna Salvia off clnalis

1.30 The diversity of the shape,colour, function, and behaviour of the

plants and animals has extraordinaryaesthetic and recreation value. The

biological diversity and natural andcultural landscape are also a source ofpleasure and culture for present and

1.26 About 40 plant speci_'.s have future generations.

forage values, and 35 plant speciesare tanlferous. The number of well- Penumbasl cave

.known plants for honey prodiLcing bybees is about 50, and the number of

plants used for feeding is 70.

1.27 Different types of fish in marineand inland waters, and a considerablenumber of sea animals, are an

important food source for tumans,and frogs are also becoming _ sourceof food. Molluscs are an lnkportant

source for the preparat Lon ofpharmaceutical products ant othercosmetic products. Their shells serveto produce artistic objects, stamps.parts of musical instrumenLs, and BIODIVERSITY AND TOURISMother objects. Insects are in[portantfor pollen, and some also h_ve food 1.31 The recreational values ofand industrial values such as the bee biological and landscape diversity areand sfikworm, an asset, which can be used to

promote tourism development. It is1.28 Furs of some animtds like our duty and responsibility to protect

martens, fox, squirrel, and others also and develop these values for presenthave economic value, and future generations. If we are not

able and responsible to protectAESTHETIC AND RECREATIONAL VALUES biological and landscape diversity,

there is a risk of losing their

1.29 There are indisputable aesthetic, recreations values to help fosterrecreational, and spiritua I and tourism as a means to promote

physical values associatec, with development and prosperity inbiodiversity and landscape. B[ological Albania.life and landscape diversity are animportant spiritual sour, ,e for 1.32 Sport hunting, fishing, climbing,humans. The diversity of tlc e living and other activities, which would be

organisms and habitats and the attractive for tourism, require that

29

Albania take the necessary measures molluscs and two fish species areto protect thc environment and its endemic. Insects are represented bybiodiverslty. 16 species (11 species of Hemiptera

and five species of butterflies), Furtherstudies of the country's fauna, inparticular biospeleologlcal studies,which just have only just begun inAlbania, will help in finding newendemism in the country. [A list ofthe endemic species of Albania isfound in Appendix C of this report).

Hypericum haplophylloides

Nymphaea alba

L;r_li ', _E rV,;ZENAI,BANL¥,S ANrvNLIG_iBOURIN£;COUN'IRY ECOSYSrF_MS

1.35 The Albanian inland and marine

ecosystems are a part of theS?_;_i.,_: !.,_ Mediterranean and Balkan natural

_l() !', ; : i: _ -'' ¥_,_1( ecosystems.

Mountain ecosystem I1.33 The relief of Albania has created

the conditions for the existence and _jllr'protection of a number of endemicand subendemtc species. Ther,; are 27plant species with 150 sukspecies,which are endemic in Albania, and

another 160 plant species, which aresubendemic in Albania, Yugoslavia,and Greece. Among paleoendemicsthere are types with very old originlike Wulfenia baldaccii, F_rsythiaeuropea. Gymnospermium 1.36 Transboundary lakes likeshqipetarum, and from the neo- Shkodra. Ohrid, and Prespa are pointsendemics Lunaria telekiaoa, Crepis of fioristic and fauna exchange withbertiscea, Petasites doeifleri, L _ucoJum other Balkan countries.valentinum subspecies Vlorense, Asteralbanicus subspecies Paparis:ol, and 1.37 Species migrate through theothers, rivers and the highest parts of

Albanian mountains from their

1.34 In comparison with the flora, the natural habitats outside Albania inAlbanian fauna is less kno,_rn and Greece, Macedonia, and Yugoslavia.studied. It has a considerable number

of endemic and ancient species. Lake 1.38 The large number of subendemicOhrid is the most well known species linked with Greece andecosystem in the country in lerms of Yugoslavia. and the, marine speciesfauna endemism: over 40 species of endemic to the Adriatic Sea highlight

3O

the importance of Albania for the least 72 vertebrate and 18

protection of biodiversity in the invertebrate species with globalBalkan and Mediterranean regions, importance have at least part of their

habitats and population in Albania.THE IMPORTANCE OF ALBANIA For some of them (Pelecanus crlspus,FOR MIGRATORY SPECIES Phalacrocorax pygmeus, Salmo letnica

and Acipenser sturlo), Albania has a

1.39 The coastal wetlands and lakes critical importance. (A list of globallyinside the country are particularly threatened species is given in Annex Dimportant sites for the wintering of of this report).migratory species since about 70

waterfowl species with a population of Dalmatian Pelican in Karavasta180,000 are wintering in these areas.At.least four from them (Karavasta,Narta, Shkodra and Ohrid) can beconsidered as sites of international

Importance for waterfowls known asIBAs (Important Bird Areas), orRamsar sites, with more than 20,000

waterfowl species at each site. At thistime, only Karavasta has Ramsarstatus.

THE IMPORTANCE OF ALBAMA FORGLOBALLYTHREATENED SPECIES

1.40 In Albania, there are a number of

globally threatened species since at

31

Box 3

WHAT IS BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY

Article 2 of the Convention on Biodiversity states:

"The variability among living organisms from all sources including, inter alia,terrestrial marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of whichthey are part; this includes dlversiiy within species, between species and ofecosystems".

In other words, the term biological diversity is the number and the diversity of livingorganisms on our planet. Within this term is the diversity of genes, species, andecosystems which are the product of the evolutionary process over billions of years. Thepresence of human beings depends on this biological diversity, so from this point ofview the term blodiversity is a synonym for the term "life on the planet."

There are 1.7 million known species, but the exact number of species on the planet isnot known. It is estimated at about 5-100 million.

JBiodiversity represents the diversity of the life, which we must protect for futuregenerations and ourselves. If not, our chfidren will pay the price tomorrow.

Species disappearance is a norr:lal part of the evolution process of the living organisms.However, today, because of human activities, species and ecosystems are extremelyendangered. The loss of biodlverslty is high and continues. The forecast is that, withtoday's deforestation process, within the next 25 years 2-8% of the species willdisappear. This is in itself an environmental disaster, but the effects of this tragedy willalso Impact on the economic and social development throughout the world. At least 40%of the world's economy and 8C% of our needs are realized from the use of biologicalresources. In addition, new medical research, economic development, and newenvironmental challenges like climate change are linked closely to the protection ofbiological diversity.

Blodiverslty is a natural resource "bank" which everyone should "invest" in, in the sameway In which blodlversity is lnw sting in us.

Ole _ europaea and Spartium]ll_Ci°ll_rl

!

32

Box 4

WHY WE SHOULD PROTECT THE BIODIVERSITY

MORAL AND AESTHETIC REASONS

The diversity of species and habitats are the basis of the beauty ofnature. They increase the love for it, the love for the countryside,and develop the sense of aesthetics, which inspire composers,painters, sculptors, and other artists. The best writers and artistsare always pupils before nature;Plants and animals have extraordinary aesthetic, educational, andrecreation values;Pleasure and culture;

As a steward of nature, man must respect the right of other livingorganisms to exist; a_cd

· 1We do not have the right to leave a poorer nature and biologicaldiversity to future generations.

3EING RESPONSIBLE

Where man has "klllsd' blodlversity, "the revenge" of nature hasbeen a prompt one -- to be careful for responsible biodiversitymanagement means responsibility for every action taken;The survival of many !_lant and animal species can not be assured ffman does not intervene and takes care for their protection; andEvery species plays It:) role in keeping the balance of the nature.

'HE BENEFITS TO SOCIETY

Biological diversity forms the life resources of the plant, and Itassures ihe diversity of food products for humans and all otherliving things;The protection of 01odiversity means the protection of theenvironment on our planet: (1) wetlands are a natural filter for thesurface waters, and ky cleansing organic compounds they improvethe quality of the water and lower eutrophication -- at the sametime they protect us from flooding through their capacity toaccumulate and maintain water; (ii) dune vegetation and marshesalong the coast reduc; the erosion from the sca; and (iii) vegetationcover in hilly 'and mo antainous areas protect the soil from erosion,and the bushes and forests protect the soil from winds and

flooding;Healthy climate and fi'ash air;Rest and recreation m'e enhanced by rich blodiverslty;Many birds and aniraals cat harmful insects, and thus serve toprotect the environment; andMany plants are known to have health values and many yet to bediscovered health ben'_fits will be found in plants in thc future.

;CONOMI C VALUE

Many plant and anita al species represent important industrial andhealth products (fishes, aromatic and medical plants, animal fur);Many plants and a_limals are cultivated and tame, and thusselection and improw ment of the genetic material of these specieshas economic benefiL,;

Plants and animals and their products are exported; andTourism and sport hunting can be a source of income for theeconomy only with high biodiversity values.