The Samtskhe-Javakheti region, with its diverse microclimates and ecology, endemic species, and rich in natural and cultural heritage, presents a unique opportunity to develop resilient and sustainable landscapes by integrating agrobiodiversity and sustainable forestry. These two sectors, often addressed separately, can form a synergistic foundation for ecological sustainability, climate change adaptation, and rural development.
Agrobiodiversity—represented by traditional crop varieties, local livestock breeds, and associated traditional knowledge—plays a critical role in maintaining food security, soil health, and cultural identity. At the same time, sustainably managed forests provide essential ecosystem services such as watershed protection, carbon sequestration, and habitat for endemic species. The integration of these systems fosters multifunctional landscapes that support both biodiversity and livelihoods.
In Samtskhe-Javakheti, integrating agrobiodiversity conservation with sustainable forestry contributes to:
When discussing the conservation of agrobiodiversity and forest biodiversity, we are addressing two deeply interconnected pillars of ecological sustainability. Both systems are fundamental to the health of rural landscapes, the resilience of local communities, and the overall balance of ecosystems. However, their protection requires not only ecological awareness but also integrated, cross-sectoral action and long-term commitment at local, national, and global levels. It opens the door to sustainable landscape management, where forests, farms, pastures and settlements function in harmony.
Ultimately, conserving both agrobiodiversity and forest biodiversity is about safeguarding the future: of our food, our forests, and the communities that depend on them. It calls for inclusive governance, knowledge exchange, and a shared vision for resilient and vibrant landscapes. As a result, a German forestry expert was invited in the project to share his experience and provide insights into advanced European practices in sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation.
The expert’s visit aimed to facilitate a meaningful exchange of knowledge between Georgian forestry professionals, educators, and students, and their counterparts in Germany. Through a series of presentations and discussions, the expert introduced innovative tools and approaches used in Germany, including long-term forest planning, community engagement models, and biodiversity stewardship agreements implemented on private lands. This initiative aimed to strengthen local capacity in sustainable forest and biodiversity management and was launched by the Regional Environmental Centre for the Caucasus (RECC), with support from the Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture of Georgia and UNEP.
The meetings with professionals from the Samtskhe-Javakheti regional service of the National Forestry Agency and students and lectures from College Opizari in Akhaltsikhe focused on knowledge and experience exchange, capacity building and fostering collaboration between institutions. By inviting experienced professionals such as the German Forestry expert, Mr. Carsten Schroeder, the initiative sought to introduce practical tools and concepts – such as biodiversity stewardship agreements, multifunctional forest use and socio-economic realities of regions like Samtskhe-Javakheti. The events were attended more than 55 individual and emphasized the importance of inclusive participation, encouraging young professionals, women, local communities and educational institutions in shaping the future of forestry and biodiversity in Georgia.
