MULLAJ A. , HODA P., SHUKA L. , MIHO A., BEGO F. , QIRJO M.
1. Research Center of Flora and Fauna, FNS, UT; 2. Department of Biology, FNS, University of Tirana.
*alfred.mullaj@fshn.edu.al; aleko.miho@fshn.edu.al
Abstract
Forestry, landscape and urban ecology, proper land use, green architecture, green management practices, etc. are fundamental topics nowadays both in education and in the practice of restoration. Albania is unique in the Western Balkan region with two major Moratoria in vigor, one on Forests and the other on Hunting. Both are closely related for decreased animal populations are in part caused by the poor state of habitats (in forests and shrubs, meadows and pastures, in agriculture and urban areas). The change comes not only with strict measures against woodcutting, but also with a different vision of the whole society, experts and decision-makers about green restoration of natural and urban habitats, about forestry as art and science, about best management practices (green BMPs). Based on our experience, we are presenting here examples of green practices for Albania, aiming at the restoration of native vegetation (Mediterranean deciduous and ever green forests and shrubs, thermophilic broadleaved forests, Mediterranean mesophyllic mountainous forests and conifers, mountainous pastures, dry and semi-dry stony pastures, plane trees, Mediterranean fluvial-riparian forest belt, etc.). Green practices are briefly identified in various habitats (forest and bushy areas of hilly zones, rocky slopes along roads, wind green belts, gardens and urban parks). Hence, native plant species, endemic, rare and with ornamental values will be mentioned, concluding with considerations for the greening of Tirana city. We strongly recommend the advanced breeding technologies to be used as the proper tool to produce healthy seedlings of autochthon trees and other plants with special characteristics adapted to local ecological conditions of the country. In addition, our society and the environment can benefit from plant biotechnology, meeting the demand for restoration of forests and shrubs, combat erosion, healthy and productive medicinal and aromatic plants, ornamental plants, meadows and garden products, protect the native plant and animal species from invasive pests, etc.
Keywords: Green Albania, moratoria (hunting & forests), green practices, landscape ecology, urban ecology
