Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia

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Otar Shamugia: "The Ministry looks forward to fulfilling the obligations under the EU-Georgia Association Agreement and other International Environmental Agreements’’.

At the parliamentary session, the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr. Otar Shamugia, presented a report on the activities performed by the Ministry in 2023 and the results achieved in this direction. 

The Minister highlighted environmental challenges in the background of climate change and related solutions.

" The fight against climate change with its drastic consequences, including protecting the environment, is becoming increasingly important in the modern world. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the environmental policy is consistent and that its implementation contributes to the sustainable and balanced development of the country. Regarding environmental protection, the Ministry is looking forward to fulfilling the obligations under the EU-Georgia Association Agreement and other international environmental agreements, which, ultimately, aims to improve the environmental conditions in the country", said Mr. Otar Shamugia.
According to the Minister, Georgia has to harmonize 27 environmental directives/regulations under the EU-Georgia Association Agreement. Currently, the environmental law of Georgia complies with 21 European Union legal acts.

As stated by the Minister, in 2023, the Government of Georgia adopted the following three important laws: "On Industrial Emissions", "On Water Resources Management", and "On Radiation Protection, Nuclear Safety, and Security".

From 2026, the Government will gradually adopt a new integrated permit system (based on the Law of Georgia on "Industrial Emissions") to prevent, reduce, and control air, water, and soil pollution caused by industrial activities. Notably, the integrated environmental management system ensures that the industrial sector is continuously focused on new technologies and that the  "Green Economy" is stimulated in the country.

The Law on "Water Resources Management" is in full compliance with EU directives, ensuring the establishment of effective water resources management mechanisms in the country.

Currently, transitioning to the internationally recognized Integrated Water Resources Management model is underway. One of the most significant innovations for Georgia is adopting a river basin management mechanism and an economic mechanism for surface water usage, which will help to more rational use and effective management of water resources.

"Meanwhile, we started restoring the water quality/quantity monitoring network. Water quality monitoring is conducted at 237 points throughout Georgian rivers and lakes, and advanced hydrogeological equipment has been installed at 68 water points to monitor underground fresh drinking water", said Mr. Otar Shamugia.