An eco-scout camp called "On Guard for Nature" was held in Hirkan National Park
On October 16-18, the next eco-scout camp titled "Guarding Nature" was organized in Hirkan National Park by the IDEA Public Union and the Azerbaijan Scout Association, with the support of the Youth Foundation of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
The purpose of the "Guarding Nature" camps is to inform young people about Azerbaijan's rich nature, endemic flora and fauna, to promote nature conservation, to teach them to use the resources provided by nature efficiently and correctly, and to encourage proper behavior in the wild and recreation without harming the environment.
The camp brought together 100 young people aged 18-25 who are studying or have completed their education in the fields of environment and sustainable development, have experience in this area, and are distinguished by their ecological activity.
An eco-tour was organized in the territory of Hirkan National Park with the participation of voluntarily joined youth. Young people were provided with extensive information about the main purpose of establishing Hirkan National Park, the conservation of relic and endemic plant species of the third period, the protection of typical flora and fauna species included in the "Red Book" of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and particularly rare leopards encountered in Hirkan National Park, as shared by an expert from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
During the three-day camp, young people received training on Azerbaijan's biodiversity and national parks, as well as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They also practiced using modern equipment in sports such as mountaineering, learned techniques for dealing with extraordinary situations, and first aid for the injured. Additionally, participants took part in hikes to the picturesque Khanbulan Lake, orientation exercises, archery, sports games, zipline rides, extreme overnight stays, and various ecological competitions and contests. They also engaged in discussions on global environmental issues, participated in the "From Waste to Art" workshop, and enjoyed musical entertainment.
At the end of the camp, participants were awarded commemorative certificates.
It should be noted that the IDEA Public Union launched the "Eco-Scout" project in March 2017. The project's goal is to involve young people in nature conservation, to study and protect wildlife in depth, and to encourage engagement in beneficial ecological activities in society. The first camp under the "Eco-Scout" project was held in May 2018 at Shirvan National Park, followed by camps in Ag-Gol, Goygol, and Shahdag National Parks.
Considering the importance of ecological education, reducing and gradually eliminating damage caused to nature by human activity, and forming ethical behavior towards nature, it is planned to hold "Guarding Nature" eco-scout camps in other national parks of our country as well.
