Ahead of COP17: Reforesting Vayots Dzor with Ucom

Published on 14/05/2025

The Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC), in collaboration with SunChild NGO and Ucom volunteers, has launched a new reforestation program in the Gnishik mountainous area of Vayots Dzor. The essential project works to restore damaged landscapes throughout the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge (CWR), which serves as Armenia's initial private protected area and biodiversity center in the South Caucasus region.

The reforestation project involves more than simply planting trees. The initiative represents a long-term dedication to restoring Armenia's forest ecosystems while establishing enduring wildlife habitats for endangered species, including brown bears, bezoar goats, black vultures, and the rare Caucasian leopard. The wild seedlings planted today will serve as both soil stabilisers and erosion fighters while providing vital food for the refuge's diverse animal population throughout the upcoming years.

The current reforestation project is vital because Armenia will host the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. FPWC intensifies its advocacy for responsibility and action through this initiative, which unites citizens with private partners and institutional entities to protect our natural heritage before the upcoming global event.

Ucom's continuous involvement demonstrates how businesses can effectively participate in environmental protection efforts.  Ucom volunteers achieve direct ecological benefits for Armenia by leaving their offices to participate in nature conservation activities.

The grassroots initiatives, based on community involvement, conservation practices, and cooperation, demonstrate how to build resilience and regeneration in the face of accelerating climate change and growing biodiversity threats. Each newly planted tree creates progress toward a sustainable, wilder, and healthier Armenia.