Cross-border cooperation is one of the leading instruments of integrative processes in Europe. The formation of cross-border regions is an essential prerequisite for effective cooperation and sustainable development. Experiences have confirmed that this type of cooperation induces a whole spectrum of positive effects on the space. Cross-border spatial planning is an initial step towards successful territorial cohesion, but also a necessary condition for economic, ecological and political cooperation, especially those areas that define large differences. The territory of Republika Srpska, considering the specificity of the shape of the territory, the state organization and the asymmetric division of jurisdiction, is characterized by a large number of (potential) border regions with diff erent characteristics and potential. The paper treats the problem of cross-border cooperation, as the potential of the territory of the Republic of Srpska/Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also explains the necessity of forming regions, their connection and cooperation. Also, the paper shows pronounced integration functions and the role of Republika Srpska/Bosnia and Herzegovina in connecting the countries that surround it. The types of cross-border cooperation are presented with reference to the current and previous spatial plans of the Republic.

In the recent years, geoheritage and geodiversity have gained increased importance when it comes to nature protection. Term geoheritage defines sites both cultural important and natural heritage with emphasized geomorphological, geological, pedological, archeological (Article 15 "Official Gazette of Republic of Srpska" no.38/22), paleoarcheological and hydrological values. Therefore, geoheritage objects represent a significant geodiversity of the Republic of Srpska. Some objects of geoheritage, located within the territory of the Republic of Srpska, have been protected since the very beginning of institutional nature protection. Regarding its' importance, many geomorphological objects were protected as natural heritage by State institution for protection of cultural monuments and natural rarities in 1950s and 1960s. Some of the cave geoheritage objects that were under protection in the middle of 20th century are: Ljelješnica, Jurkovica, Rakovac, Čukovac, Provalija, Govještica, Banja Stijena, Vaganska and others. In the 21st century the trend of protecting natural heritage and geoheritage objects continues. The Republic Institute for the protection of cultural, historical and natural heritage made so far 15 Studies for the protection of cave geoheritage objects, among which 14 represents "Natural monuments" and one "Nature park". Important geoheritage that enjoys legal protection in accordance to the Law on Nature Protection are: Rastuša Cave, Ljubačevo Cave (northern RS), Ledana Cave, Vaganska Cave, Mračaj Cave (central RS), Mokranjska Miljacka Cave, Kuk Cave, Orlovača Cave, Ledenjača Cave, Girska Cave, Govještica Cave, Banja Stijena Cave (East RS), "Pod Lipom" Cave, "Velika pećina" Cave, Pavlova Cave and Đatlo Cave (South RS). In addition to the mentioned caves and pits, the Institute has also protected the canyon of the Prača River, where the caves Govjestica and Banja Stijena are located. The natural monument "Vrela Sane" was protected in 2021, thereby protecting the cave Mračaj. The geonatural heritage of the Republic of Srpska, with its geomorphological, geological, pedological, archaeological, and hydrological significance, represents potential for the development of geotourism, which is why special attention needs to be directed towards proper and functional management of protected geoheritage. The geoheritage of the Republic of Srpska, its preservation, and protection represent a significant part of the modern concept of nature conservation, which includes the protection and use of natural resources within the framework of sustainable development.

The thermal characteristics of urban areas differ from the thermal characteristics of the surroundings. The phenomenon of urban heat islands exists both in large urban areas and in smaller medium-sized areas. In the research of urban heat islands, there are two main approaches - direct measurements of air temperature in the field and reading temperatures from remote sensing products. In this study, remote sensing products from Landsat 8 and Landsat 9 missions were analyzed to determine differences in thermal characteristics of specific land use types within the territory of the city of Banja Luka. A total of 23 satellite images from various months of 2023 were collected, and the thermal characteristics were analyzed using an image from July. Considering the terrain's relief complexity in the observed area, the analysis also included the aspect of elevation levels. The research results indicate that built-up areas generally have higher temperatures compared to other land use classes by at least 2°C. The lowest average temperatures were observed in forest and water surface classes. Looking at elevation zones, the highest average temperatures were recorded in the first elevation zone up to 200 meters above sea level, reaching 30.4°C. All analyses were conducted using open-source software packages. The findings of this research can be beneficial for various sectors such as spatial/urban planning, health, energy, water management, forestry, and similar fields. Additionally, the research results can contribute to future detailed studies focusing on defining local climate zones and thermal variations within them.

Agricultural land represents a natural wealth and a common interest for the Republic of Srpska. The legislative framework has clearly defi ned the protection, regulation, use, and disposal of agricultural land, while appropriate strategies and plans have concretized various measures and activities. However, despite the imperative need for the protection of the highest quality agricultural land, numerous examples of irrational and spontaneous actions are evident in practice, ultimately leading to degradation or complete loss of agricultural land. This paper analyzes the treatment of agricultural land in 9 Urban plans developed in the territory of the Republic of Srpska. Analyses of land uses have indicated that agricultural land is significantly suppressed by other land use classes.

This paper focuses on ecological corridors as a key component for biodiversity conservation and spatial planning in the Republic of Srpska. Ecological networks and corridors represent solutions for enhancing ecological connectivity, allowing for the unhindered movement of species and genetic exchange. The paper thoroughly examines the definitions of ecological corridors, emphasizing their importance in nature conservation and reducing human impact on the environment. It also highlights the need for integrating ecological corridors into the legislative frameworks of the Republic of Srpska, which currently lack adequate provisions for protecting these vital elements. Within the research, a methodology for identifying ecological corridors is proposed, relying on GIS technology. This methodology aims to provide a scientific basis for incorporating ecological corridors into spatial planning documentation, thereby contributing to biodiversity preservation and sustainable development. The paper indicates the significance of synchronizing nature protection laws with spatial planning laws to effectively safeguard ecosystems and enable their revitalization.