puskavyöhyke

Puskavyöhyke, often translated as buffer zone or protective belt, refers to a geographical or ecological area established to separate two distinct entities or environments. This separation can serve various purposes, including mitigating conflict, protecting sensitive ecosystems, or managing land use.

In international relations and geopolitics, a puskavyöhyke is a neutral territory situated between two potentially hostile states or military forces. Its existence aims to reduce the likelihood of direct confrontation by creating a physical distance and a designated area where military activity is restricted or prohibited. These zones can be demilitarized areas or controlled by a third-party entity.

Ecologically, a puskavyöhyke acts as a transition area between a protected natural habitat and human-dominated landscapes such as agricultural land or urban development. Its purpose is to shield the core protected area from negative impacts like habitat fragmentation, pollution, or invasive species. These zones often allow for compatible human activities like sustainable forestry or low-impact tourism, while ensuring the conservation of biodiversity within the adjacent protected region. The effectiveness of a puskavyöhyke depends on its size, management, and the cooperation of surrounding communities and authorities.