INTEGRATED SPATIAL PLANNING IN THE FUNCTION OF NATURE PROTECTION – SITUATION, CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMPROVEMENT IN THE REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA

Abstract

Nature protection in The Republic of Srpska faces great challenges. Although, according to the Spatial Plan of The Republic of Srpska by 2025 should be between 15 and 20% of the territory in the category of protected natural assets, currently less than 3% of the territory is protected. Also, a spatial plans and zoning plans of special purpose areas have not yet been prepared for all areas declared as natural assets, although they are the basis for implementing the prescribed protection measure. In such circumstances of the slow process of nature protection, the application of integrated spatial planning is extremely important, because it acts preventively and enables nature protect with the planning mechanisms of analysis, valorization and use of space until the official categorization of natural assets. In that aim, it is necessary to further develop the methodology of integrated planning from the aspect of nature pro tection and natural assets and to strengthen the professional capacities of planning teams. Very important prerequisites in this process are the intensive cooperation of planners with the Republic Institute for the Protection of Cul tural, Historical and Natural Heritage of The Republic of Srpska, expanding and permanently updating the information system about nature, supporting biodiversity research, improving legal regulations, raising professional and in stitutional capacities and inter-institutional cooperation.