Role of the International Ecological Network, Emerald, in the Western Balkans’ Protected Areas

Abstract

Ecological networks play an important role in controlling, preserving, and protecting nature all around Europe. Since not all European countries are part of the European Union (EU), consequently not all of the countries are part of Natura 2000, the largest European network for nature protection. All European countries, including non-EU, countries are part of one ecological network named Emerald. Emerald is international ecological network composed of Network of Areas of Special Conservation Interest (ASCI). Protected areas in Western Europe conduct more research and have more monetary assets, contrary to Eastern Europe. Research is focused on the Western Balkan countries and the number of Emerald nature protected areas on the borders of these countries. Historical overview of the political situation in this area before the Yugoslavian war is considered and consequences from this event on nature protected areas. Cross-border cooperation among many countries, cities, and villages, or even whole regions is very dependent on cooperation between geographical entities. By enlarging the Western Balkans into the EU, it is important to observe ASCI changes to the Emerald Network which presents a basis for addressing future EU-level Natura 2000 sites.