The phenomena of the wetland landscapes of the Colchic Lowland (Georgia) and their sustainable development challenges

The Kolchic Rainforests and Wetlands, particularly the Kolkheti wetlands in Georgia, play a pivotal role in maintaining biodiversity and supporting a rich diversity of medicinal plant species. While the establishment of the Kolkheti National Park has significantly improved conservation efforts, surrounding areas remain under pressure from human activities and infrastructure development. This study employs an integrative approach, combining geographical, ecological, economic, and ethnocultural data analysis with field research to assess historical and contemporary agricultural practices, vegetation cover, hydrological conditions, and ecosystem dynamics. The findings underscore the ecological, economic, and cultural importance of these wetlands for sustainable regional development, highlighting the necessity for comprehensive assessment and management strategies using integrative approaches to guide future planning and forecasting.

Elizbarashvili, N., Gurgenidze, M., Bubashvili, L., & Svanadze, D. (2026). The phenomena of the wetland landscapes of the Colchic Lowland (Georgia) and their sustainable development challenges. Journal of Environmental Biology, 47(5), 1024–1030. https://doi.org/10.22438/jeb/47/5/mrn-5860