THE IMPACT OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT LAND MANAGEMENT PROJECTS ON THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF PROTECTED AREAS: CASE STUDY OF THE NEMUNAS LOOPS REGIONAL PARK

Abstract

Over the last few years, a lot of attention has been given to preserving natural and cultural heritage. In Lithuania, the amount of land designated as protected areas has grown significantly. A major challenge is learning to live in harmony with nature meeting the needs of society without causing harm. It's crucial to strike a balance between preserving valuable landscapes, biodiversity, and both natural and cultural heritage, and allowing for urban development, economic activities, and other human impacts.

Spatial planning documents aim to create a harmonious relationship between the natural and human-made environments. The aim of research is to evaluate the effectiveness of the Rural Development Land Management Projects, prepared between 2012 and 2024, and their impact on sustainable development within the Nemunas Loops Regional Park. This park spans the municipalities of Alytus district, Birštonas and Prienai district. Also, the analysis of issued planning permits in the park territory, based on Management Plan, is made.

The research shows that both the Rural Development Land Management Projects and issued planning permits within the protected area align with the park’s Management Plan. This plan effectively balances human activity by regulating urban development, particularly in sensitive protected zones. By examining issued planning permits from the municipalities of Alytus district, Birštonas and Prienai district, we found that new urban development within the Nemunas Loops Regional Park is guided by the Management Plan. The plan's regulations are key instrument to control urban development in the area