Afforestation as a means of ensuring biodiversity and reducing the risk of natural disasters: Viva and “My Forest Armenia” continue an important mission
Viva and the My Forest Armenia NGO continue their cooperation to promote a green mindset. Since 2022, the partners have been implementing afforestation projects, making a long-term contribution to expanding the country’s forest ecosystems, preserving biodiversity, and reducing the risk of natural disasters. This work requires dedication and patience, as it aims to create a safe and sustainable future for generations to come. Tree and shrub seedlings—grown from the seeds of various native forest species and featuring both closed and open root systems—are transported from the nursery to the sites where the future forest is taking shape.
Throughout their partnership, Viva and “My Forest Armenia” have carried out reforestation work at three different locations in the Lori region. Planting sites were selected not only based on favorable climatic conditions but also with the aim of preventing potential landslides. This year, work is underway in the Dzorashen community of the Shirak region. The forest being created will be named in honor of the renowned chansonnier Charles Aznavour.
“No country is immune to natural disasters; however, minimal steps can be taken to mitigate potential risks and preserve biodiversity. This is not merely a one-off tree-planting event, but a strategy aimed at long-term results. We are guided by a long-term approach. By joining forces, we aim to expand Armenia’s forest cover, which in turn will help protect local biodiversity and balance water resources,” General Director of Viva Armen Avetisian noted.
The mountainous terrain of Dzorashen is characterized by rich volcanic soils, an open landscape, and a high capacity for natural moisture retention. These features create favorable conditions for planting native tree and shrub species and establishing a resilient ecosystem. The approach taken by the partner organizations aligns with the priorities of international bodies working in environmental protection and natural disaster risk reduction. In accordance with a UN General Assembly resolution, the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction is observed on 13 October.
“Viva participates in our reforestation initiatives every year, demonstrating a serious and consistent approach to addressing the environmental challenges we all face. We are delighted that this year our partner has chosen to take part in establishing the Charles Aznavour Forest; this initiative holds both environmental and social significance and serves as a fitting tribute to our distinguished compatriot, who contributed so much to this specific region,” noted Andre Gumuchdjian, founder and CEO of the environmental NGO “My Forest Armenia.”
Creating a single hectare of forest is a long-term process. It takes at least three years to ensure the initial survival of the saplings, 10 to 15 years for young, resilient forest stands to form, and over 50 years for a fully developed, mature forest ecosystem to emerge. In Armenia, where forest cover stands at just 11%, the joint efforts of Viva and the NGO “My Forest Armenia” have resulted in the planting of over 56,000 trees and reforestation work across an area of approximately 19 hectares.
