Pilots

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  The Upper Soča Valley (northern part of the Goriška statistical region)

  The purpose of this case study is to propose the creation of a Green Infrastructure (GBI) connectivity network within the inter-municipal area of Tolmin, Kobarid, and Bovec, aiming to connect the Natura 2000 area Trnovski forest – Nanos (which includes the Upper Idrijca Landscape Park) and the Natura 2000 area The Julian Alps (which includes the Triglav National Park and The Julian Alps Biosphere Reserve). The geographical scope of the study is focused on the inter-municipal area of Tolmin, Kobarid, and Bovec. Current barriers and expected threats to connectivity conservation and restoration areas are yet to be identified. However, preliminary considerations suggest that economic infrastructure, settlements, road infrastructure, and agricultural activities (especially cattle, sheep, and goat breeding) may pose significant challenges. Additionally, an increase in attacks by wild animals (such as bears, wolves, and jackals) on herds of livestock, both in protected and unprotected areas, has been observed, resulting in considerable damage to animal breeders. The connectivity objectives are to establish a connection between the Natura 2000 area Trnovski forest – Nanos and the Natura 2000 area The Julian Alps. The current status of connectivity in the pilot territory for the target species and ecological processes is characterized by a lack of recognition of the concept of ecological connectivity in spatial planning at the local, regional, and national levels. The absence of this concept in valid municipal spatial plans, not only in the Goriška region but also in municipalities of other statistical regions, underscores the need for increased awareness and information sharing about the importance of integrating ecological connectivity considerations into spatial planning processes during the implementation of pilot activities.

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  Caorle Wetland system

  The purpose of this case study is to identify strategic Green Infrastructure (GBI) elements prioritizing connectivity areas within the inter-municipal territory of Caorle, San Michele al Tagliamento, and Concordia Sagittaria. These areas are currently managed under the governance setting of a voluntary agreement known as the "Wetland Contract," aimed at regulating the use of natural capital. The study aims to assess the effectiveness and coherence of current provincial and municipal ecological network plans, as well as other related sector plans and policies. Additionally, it seeks to propose revisions or upgrades to these plans. Moreover, the study intends to enhance the Wetland Contract and its action plan concerning the conservation and restoration of connectivity, including defragmentation, habitat improvement, new habitat creation, invasive species management, and regulation of land uses. The geographical scope of the study encompasses the inter-municipal area of the Caorle Lagoon system and its surroundings. Current barriers and expected threats to connectivity conservation and restoration areas include infrastructural developments that fragment the territory, direct pressures on habitat caused by human-induced actions or events, and indirect pressures resulting from economic, cultural, societal, or institutional factors. Additionally, climate change pressures on habitats are anticipated to contribute to these challenges. The connectivity objectives in Veneto entail identifying key conservation and restoration areas for target species and ecological functions within the pilot area. This analysis will consider the pilot area as part of the regional connectivity network and prioritize planning areas accordingly.