GEF – KEC

The Karst Ecosystem Conservation (KEC) project was developed to support the conservation of Croatia’s karst ecosystems, building on the National Strategy and Action Plan for Biodiversity Protection adopted by the Croatian Parliament. The project placed strong emphasis on aligning biodiversity protection with socio-economic development, while promoting broad stakeholder involvement and long-term sustainability.

Prepared with the support of the Global Environment Facility, the project followed a structured, multi-phase approach, including the development of studies, project formulation and the preparation of full project documentation in line with GEF requirements.

Funding programme

Global Environment Facility

Implementation period

2000 – 2005

Partnership

Ministry of Environment Protection and Physical Planning, Croatia
Priority Actions Programme/Regional Activity Centre

Geographic scope

The project covered key karst areas in Croatia, including:

National Park Risnjak
National Park Northern Velebit
National Park Paklenica
National Park Plitvice Lakes
Nature Park Velebit, including adjacent areas

The geographic scope was defined during the preparation phase, supported by field research conducted in Velebit, Lika and Gorski Kotar.

Key objectives

conserve biodiversity of karst ecosystems in Croatia
ensure broad stakeholder involvement in conservation efforts
promote economically sustainable approaches aligned with national socio-economic priorities

Main results

preparation of project documentation in accordance with GEF standards
development of analytical studies, including social and rural development aspects
formulation of a comprehensive project framework covering priority protected areas and surrounding regions

Role of PAP/RAC

PAP/RAC was selected to lead the technical preparation of the project, including the development of studies, formulation of the project, and preparation of documentation required for GEF submission, working in close cooperation with national authorities and international partners.

Partners

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