Energy is a key component of people’s life, which has major socio-economic bearings. In the rural areas of Shebenik-Jabllanica National Park and wider one, the only energy source is fire wood. Further on agriculture and forestry are two main components on land use development in villages surround Rajca beach forest area and closely linked to each other throughout the history of human presence in the region. In addition, within a watershed, usually villagers use the upper side for forestry (wood and protection from erosion, along with ecological and social impacts) and pasture, whereas the lower side for agricultural crops.
Contrary to its unique significance for the entire natural values of Shebenik-Jabllanica National Park, the forest areas continues to suffer from several transition related problems, that happen in Albania in both non protected and protected areas. Among these are declining investments, the practical breakdown of forest management and maintenance, and lacking public supervision and law enforcement. In consequence, the resource base has been declining significantly for years on end, not only in terms of quantitative aspects, but also in terms of even more widespread forest degradation.
The former Rajca Strict Reserve (currently strict zone of Shebenik-Jabllanica National Park) has been highly affected by the human intervention and illegal use, for timber and fire wood. Obviously the forest material is used not only by the local population but has been illegally sold in the areas out of the park.
The model project on installment of heating system for the Secondary School of Bardhaj intends to influence in reduction of firewood consumption, improvement of the current standards at the entire school premises, and influence in protection of the beach forest. The Bardhaj is one of the remote mountain villages of the Municipality Prrenjas, a village with particular traditions and reflecting long human presence within area. Currently in the school are studying 48 pupils from the first grade up to grade 9. With installment of new hitting system the local NGO Albnatyra in collaboration with the park administration, supported by EuroNatur and PPNEA intends to encourage communities and public entities in the wider area on implementing advanced approaches for saving energy and directly influence in nature conservation. The installation of the central heater system ensures provision of heating facilities with reduction of firewood at 40%.
