Protection of endangered species is a priority area of Georgian environmental law. Georgia is a biodiversity hotspot, and many species found here are included in the "Red List." Legislation prohibits the extraction, destruction, habitat damage, and trade of these species without a special permit. These regulations affect not only hunters but also developers and infrastructure projects. If a protected species (e.g., a rare plant or animal den) is found on a construction site, the project may be suspended, or expensive compensatory measures may be required. Legal services in this field involve helping businesses avoid conflict with the law and manage biodiversity risks.
What Does Endangered Species Service Cover?
Our experts assist with issues related to protected species regulations:
- Biodiversity Survey: Legal and ecological assessment of the presence of Red List species in the project area (Pre-feasibility study).
- Removal Permit: Obtaining a permit for removing (transplanting, relocating) Red List plants or animals from the natural environment in exceptional cases.
- Compensatory Measures: Developing a biodiversity offset plan and agreeing it with the Ministry.
- CITES Import-Export: Managing permits for international trade in endangered species.
- Defense against Prosecution: Legal defense in case of accusations of destroying Red List species.
- Conservation Projects: Legal assistance in setting up private conservation (e.g., nurseries, aviaries).
Common Scenarios and Needs
During the construction of infrastructure projects (roads, HPPs), Red List trees (e.g., walnut, chestnut) are often discovered. Their cutting is allowed only in exceptional cases and requires a government decree and compensatory payment. Also, tourism companies and zoos face problems importing exotic animals if CITES documentation is not in order. Farmers have issues with predators (wolves, bears) destroying their livestock, but killing them is prohibited.
Georgian Legislation and Regulations
The main act is the "Law on the Red List and Red Book of Georgia". Rules for species removal are regulated by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and local legislation. Damage compensation is calculated according to the "Methodology for Determining Damage to the Environment," where rates for Red List species are significantly higher.
The Process: How a Specialist Works
If the project involves Red List species, the lawyer and biologist prepare a justification that there is no alternative to project implementation. Then a compensation plan is drawn up (e.g., planting and maintaining 10 new trees for every 1 cut). This documentation is agreed upon with the Ministry and the Government. In the case of CITES, the lawyer communicates with the scientific authorities of the exporting and importing countries.
Why Legal.ge?
The issue of protected species often causes project delays and public resonance. Legal.ge gives you access to lawyers with experience in managing biodiversity risks. Specialists on our platform will help you find a balance between business interests and nature conservation, in full compliance with the law. Protect nature and your project with Legal.ge.
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