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David Songulashvili Reviews Ongoing Works Carried Out Under the Tbilisi Urban Forest Project
The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr David Songulashvili, inspected the ongoing works being implemented as part of the Tbilisi Urban Forest project.
According to the Minister, similar initiatives improve the city's ecological conditions, promote biodiversity conservation, and help mitigate the impacts of climate change.
“We attach particular importance to projects that integrate forest restoration, biodiversity conservation, and the development of modern urban green spaces. The Tbilisi Urban Forest is an outstanding example of how cooperation between the state and the private sector can deliver long-term results that simultaneously improve environmental conditions and advance Georgia's sustainable development goals. To date, nearly 700 hectares of land have been rehabilitated across Tbilisi, and approximately 700,000 saplings have been planted. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Cartu Foundation for initiating and implementing such an important project for our country,” stated Mr David Songulashvili.
Notably, the Tbilisi Urban Forest project, implemented with the support of the Cartu Foundation, is nearing completion. Moreover, the project aims to restore green spaces throughout Tbilisi, strengthen local ecosystems, and improve recreational opportunities for residents.
As part of the initiative, nearly 700 hectares of land have already been rehabilitated, with approximately 700,000 saplings planted across the city. In addition, almost 45 kilometres of pedestrian and cycling trails have been upgraded, including the construction of 20 kilometres of new pathways. During the implementation process, around 52,000 dead or damaged trees were removed, while four new water wells were installed to supply irrigation systems covering approximately 200 hectares of forested area.
In addition to its environmental objectives, the project enhances recreational opportunities by developing accessible and sustainable spaces for residents and visitors, including benches, viewing platforms, arbors, shelters and a birdwatching hide. All infrastructure has been carefully designed to blend seamlessly with the existing landscape and natural terrain.
Particular emphasis has also been placed on preserving biodiversity and supporting the return of bird species to their natural habitats. To this end, the project has incorporated bird breeding and reintroduction practices aiming to restore local populations. As a result, visitors walking along the rehabilitated trails now have the opportunity to observe birds in their natural environment.
The Tbilisi Urban Forest project has a total budget of GEL 24 million and is being financed in its entirety by the International Charity Foundation Cartu.
Minister David Songulashvili was accompanied by the Deputies of the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, as well as the Heads of the Agencies operating within the Ministry system.