Guidelines for the Integration of Biodiversity into Spatial Planning – Book II (Montenegro)

Title Guidelines for the Integration of Biodiversity into Spatial Planning – Book II (Montenegro))
Short description of the practice The Guidelines for the Integration of Biodiversity into Spatial Planning provide a methodological and practical framework for incorporating biodiversity protection and ecosystem considerations into spatial and urban planning processes in Montenegro. The document supports decision-makers and planners in identifying, assessing, and mitigating impacts of development on ecosystems, while promoting sustainable land use and balanced territorial development, particularly in ecologically sensitive and rural mountainous areas.
Keywords Spatial planning, biodiversity integration, ecosystem protection, sustainable land use, environmental impact prevention
Organisation in charge of the good practice Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Region Development
In cooperation with national expert institutions and planning authorities
Implementation level of the practice Level:  National, with regional and local implementation

Country: Montenegro

Region: Komovi mountain area / Municipality of Andrijevica
Website https://www.gov.me/
Detailed information on the practice The Guidelines aim to bridge the gap between biodiversity conservation and spatial planning by providing tools and recommendations for integrating ecological values into planning documents, such as spatial plans, detailed urban plans, and sectoral development strategies. The document emphasizes the importance of preserving ecological connectivity, protecting sensitive habitats, and avoiding or minimizing land-use conflicts that may lead to habitat fragmentation and biodiversity loss.

Special attention is given to rural and mountainous areas with high natural value, where development pressures—such as infrastructure expansion, tourism facilities, and unregulated land use—can negatively affect fragile ecosystems. The Guidelines promote preventive planning approaches, including early identification of biodiversity-rich areas, use of ecological indicators, and application of mitigation and compensation measures where impacts cannot be avoided.

For areas such as Komovi, the Guidelines are particularly relevant in managing tourism development, infrastructure planning, and land-use changes in a way that respects ecosystem limits. By encouraging cross-sectoral cooperation and evidence-based planning, the practice contributes to maintaining ecosystem services while allowing sustainable socio-economic development.
Timeframe Adopted as a guiding document for ongoing and future spatial planning processes
Approximate cost Costs related to policy development and planning processes at national and local levels; implementation costs vary depending on planning scope
Results achieved
  • Improved consideration of biodiversity in spatial and land-use planning
  • Reduced risk of habitat degradation and ecosystem fragmentation
  • Strengthened coordination between environmental and planning authorities
  • Increased awareness of biodiversity values among planners and decision-makers
Potential for learning or transfer This practice demonstrates how strategic planning tools can effectively integrate biodiversity conservation into development decision-making. It is highly transferable to other mountainous and rural regions facing tourism growth and land-use pressures. Key success factors include early-stage integration, use of ecological data, and intersectoral cooperation. Challenges include limited local capacity and the need for continuous data updates.
Additional material Guidelines for the Integration of Biodiversity into Spatial Planning – Book II (Montenegro)
Contact person Name: Ilinka Alorić

Affiliation: Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Region Development

Email:   ilinka.aloric@mers.gov.me