Environmental experts note that both targeted regions function as vital nature reserves within the Adriatic ecosystem, providing critical habitats for rare wildlife and diverse migratory bird populations.
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Members of the European Parliament have issued warnings to Albania, noting that its European Union accession goals could face delays if environmental benchmarks are bypassed.
Albania targets full EU integration by the year 2030.
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has defended the massive development, labeling it the largest investment in the history of the former communist nation, a "gift to Europe," and an economic blessing for one of Western Europe's poorest countries.
Lipa's public endorsement arrived on the 45th consecutive day of public demonstrations held throughout the capital city of Tirana.
Aleksander Trajce, the head of the Protection and Preservation of the Natural Environment in Albania (PPNEA), welcomed the global pop icon's perspective during an interview.
"It was a very powerful statement. A lot of especially younger Albanians, who see her as an idol, have been inspired," he said.
"This is the 45th day of our protests and there is no sign they are going to stop."
When questioned about potential policy reversals by Albanian state officials, Trajce indicated that local authorities are only now initiating delayed environmental studies.
"The government is now beginning to do what it should have done from the start, such as conducting an environmental impact study but on [Zvërnec] the damage has already been done; works have taken place, there has been an environmental crime and people should be held accountable," Trajce stated.
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Project developers maintain that the construction will proceed under strict corporate standards, highlighting a corporate focus on long-term value creation, local employment, and responsible environmental stewardship.
