Georgia is facing socio-demographic problems in the foothills, which are suffering from both population out-migration and lack of jobs, as well as negative environmental impacts from recent economic restructuring. On the other hand, the foothills retain a species-diverse, extensive native forest covering 42 % of the territory. Their importance lies both in fulfilling the forest's own function in the ecosystem and as a source of livelihood and shelter for the local population. Whatmore, they can also serve as an environment for recreation. These forests are thus a key component in buffering extreme climate variability and a prerequisite for adaptation measures to cope with the full range of climate change impacts.

The objective of the project, which focuses on the forests of the Aragvi Protected Area in Georgia, is to implement sustainable management while maintaining and naturally evolving mountain forest ecosystems.

The actual application of the project measures will be preceded by an extensive analytical part including research on the status and potential uses of the forest and the subsequent elaboration of a forest management plan. This will be followed by capacity building for timber processing and the creation of small logging teams. A separate part of the project is extensive education, covering both timber processing issues and information on the broader functions of the forest.