Methodology to assess climate change impacts on SCI in Shebenik National Park

As climate change continues to emerge as one of the most significant threats to biodiversity worldwide, mountain ecosystems are among the most vulnerable. Even modest changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can profoundly affect habitats, ecosystem functions, and the survival of rare and endemic species. Shebenik National Park, one of Albania’s most important biodiversity hotspots, is home to numerous endemic species and Species of Community Interest (SCI). These are protected under European conservation frameworks with many facing increased risks from climate-induced environmental changes.

In response to these challenges, ILIRIA Association, with the support of PONT, has developed the “Methodology to Assess Climate Change Impacts on Species of Community Interest in Shebenik National Park”.  This is part of the project framework of “Enhancing Biodiversity Knowledge and Climate Resilience in Shebenik and Prespa National Parks”. This initiative aims to strengthen the scientific basis for biodiversity conservation and to enhance the capacity of protected area managers to address the growing impacts of climate change.

The methodology provides a comprehensive and standardised framework for assessing the vulnerability of plant Species of Community Interest and their habitats to climate change. It integrates field monitoring, habitat assessment, climate-related indicators, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and climate vulnerability analysis into a practical, evidence-based monitoring system. By combining these elements, the methodology enables a more systematic understanding of how environmental changes affect species and ecosystems over time.

Beyond documenting species presence and distribution, the methodology facilitates long-term monitoring of critical ecological parameters, including population dynamics, habitat condition, regeneration success, flowering phenology, and other indicators that may reveal the effects of changing climatic conditions. The application of consistent monitoring protocols will allow conservation practitioners and park managers to identify emerging trends, detect ecological changes at an early stage, and implement timely and effective management responses.

A key component of the methodology is the integration of climate vulnerability assessment into biodiversity conservation planning. Species and habitats are evaluated based on their exposure to climate change, ecological sensitivity, and adaptive capacity. This approach provides an objective framework for identifying conservation priorities, supporting targeted interventions, and enhancing the resilience of ecosystems to future environmental pressures.

Although specifically tailored to the ecological characteristics and conservation needs of Shebenik National Park, the methodology is built upon internationally recognised principles and aligns with the requirements of the EU Habitats Directive, Natura 2000 standards, and adaptive ecosystem management approaches. Consequently, it offers a valuable model that can be replicated and adapted across other protected areas in Albania, contributing to the harmonisation and strengthening of biodiversity monitoring systems at the national level.

By bridging scientific research and practical conservation management, this work supports the National Agency of Protected Areas (NAPA) in integrating climate resilience considerations into future management planning processes. At the same time, it contributes to Albania’s ongoing efforts to prepare for Natura 2000 implementation and to fulfil broader European biodiversity commitments.

Ultimately, the methodology represents an important milestone in advancing evidence-based conservation in Albania. Through improved monitoring, vulnerability assessment, and adaptive management, it will help ensure that decisions affecting biodiversity conservation are increasingly informed by robust scientific data and are responsive to the challenges posed by a changing climate.

By: “Ilira Association”