Wetlands protection is part of Georgia's environmental policy, stemming from the country's accession to the Ramsar Convention. Wetlands (swamps, peatlands, deltas) play a critical role in water regulation and biodiversity conservation. Particularly important are the Colchis Lowland wetlands, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Legislation prohibits draining, polluting, or altering the hydrological regime of these areas. Business activities (e.g., peat extraction, agriculture) in wetlands are subject to strict regulation. Legal services are needed for investors wishing to operate in these zones to ensure compliance with environmental standards and avoid heavy fines.
What Does Wetlands Legal Service Cover?
Our experts assist with issues related to Ramsar Convention protected areas:
- Status Determination: Checking the project area status — whether it falls under the Ramsar Convention or local protection.
- EIA and Permits: Obtaining an Environmental Decision for projects (e.g., infrastructure) impacting wetlands.
- Peat Extraction: Licensing for peat extraction and agreeing on a recultivation plan.
- Drainage Systems: Assessing the legality of agricultural land drainage projects.
- Eco-tourism Development: Permits for organizing tourist routes (boat trips) in protected wetlands.
- Water Use: Permits for water abstraction or discharge from/to wetlands.
Common Scenarios and Needs
Swamps are often drained for agricultural development, which is a violation if the area is protected. Investors face problems when discovering that land they purchased is in a Ramsar Convention zone where construction is restricted. Also, port development in Poti and Anaklia requires complex measures to protect wetland ecosystems.
Georgian Legislation and Regulations
The field is regulated by the international "Ramsar Convention", the "Law on the System of Protected Areas", and the "Law on Water Resources Management". Colchis peatlands are protected under special legislation on the Kolkheti National Park.
The Process: How a Specialist Works
The lawyer conducts a legal audit of the territory's status. If the project is permissible, an EIA is prepared, focusing on hydrological studies and impact on migratory bird habitats. The lawyer ensures communication with the Ministry's Biodiversity Department.
Why Legal.ge?
Wetlands are ecologically sensitive zones. Any intervention requires high-qualified legal and ecological justification. Legal.ge gives you access to experts who know the requirements of international conventions. Specialists on our platform will help you implement projects without damaging the environment. Protect water resources with Legal.ge.
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