The aim of the project’s final conference on Mapping, Monitoring and Managing the Cross-Border Natura 2000 Network at Sea – 4M was to present key findings to key stakeholders, discuss experiences and challenges and potential co-operation in order to maintain the sustainability of the project results achieved.
The most prominent results of the project are:
- Exchange of best domestic and international practices in the identification and management of the marine ecological network, cross-sectoral recommendations for improvement, improved cross-border and cross-sectoral communication and cooperation in the protection of underwater life
- Increased capacities of relevant cross-border institutions in the planning of marine ecosystem protection management, mapping of marine species/habitats and monitoring of Posidonia meadows.
- A proposal for management measures for the marine ecological network of the cross-border area of Cavtat-Prevlaka (HR) and Arza-Platamuni (CG) was adopted through the consultation process.
- Created maps of the spread of marine habitats/species in the cross-border area of Cavtat-Prevlaka (HR) and Arza-Platamuni (CG).
- Report on the status of the Posidonia estate and a proposal for conservation measures.
- Increased awareness of nautical tourists in order to reduce their impact on the marine environment.
- Increased levels of awareness among school and pre-school children in the cross-border area on the importance of underwater protection.
The project created the basis for establishing the first protected marine area in Montenegro. Namely, Montenegro has undertaken, in the EU accession process, to protect at least 10% of the coast by 2020, and is currently the only Mediterranean country with no protected area in the sea.