A training dedicated to the International Day of Forests was held in the Qakh district.

On March 29, a training dedicated to the International Day of Forests was held at Qakh City School-Lyceum No. 2, jointly organized by the IDEA Public Union, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The event was organized within the framework of a joint project aimed at carrying out educational activities on the benefits of forests.

It is known that forests, considered the “lungs” of our planet, are among the most valuable natural resources of the Earth. Their role is indispensable in eliminating the negative effects of climate change, preserving living organisms, maintaining ecological balance and ecosystems, forming climate conditions in various geographical zones, increasing soil moisture and water reserves in rivers and lakes, contributing to the socio-economic development of countries, and improving the well-being of the population. Although the state of Azerbaijan’s forests has improved in recent years thanks to a number of measures, including reforestation and afforestation efforts, the damage caused by harmful human activities — especially pollution, illegal tree cutting, and overgrazing by large livestock — still shows that our forests require serious protection. One of the most important and sustainable protection methods is raising awareness among the population, especially the youth, about the strict preservation of our forests and green areas. Taking this into account, project partners consider it essential to regularly conduct trainings for the population living in forest-adjacent districts.

The main goal of the training held in the Qakh district was to involve the younger generation in efforts to protect nature, particularly forests, and to educate them on sustainable forest management, including the restoration of degraded forests and ways to increase forested areas.

During the training, schoolchildren were informed about the harmful consequences of improper and careless behavior towards forests; they were briefed on achievements in forest protection, the current ecological state of forests, forest fires and preventive measures, the protection of biodiversity during forest use, and solutions to other ecological issues in the forest sector. Engaging games, competitions, and team activities were organized to increase young people’s interest in forests and forestry. Later, the IDEA Public Union distributed educational booklets to students on the proper planting and care of trees.

At the end of the event, students planted a total of 50 fruit trees — including cherry, apple, pear, and peach — in their schoolyard.

Considering the impact of environmental activities on the ecological awareness and potential of schoolchildren, it is planned to organize similar trainings in other forest-adjacent regions of our country as well.