Georgia showcases environmental education models and ‘My First Sapling’ initiative at COP17

Georgia’s strides in environmental education, highlighted by its flagship initiative, “My First Sapling”, took centre stage at the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the Convention on Biological Diversity in Yerevan.

Addressing international partners, Tamta Devdariani, Director of the Environmental Information and Education Centre, outlined the organisation’s key operational priorities, educational campaigns, and prospects for international cooperation.

Devdariani formally presented “My First Sapling”, a Georgian government initiative designed to instil environmental stewardship and a care for nature in young children. The scheme aims to deepen the next generation’s understanding of biodiversity while actively involving them in natural conservation efforts. The Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, as well as other state bodies and local municipal authorities, are implementing the programme.

Delegates were also briefed on Georgia’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), in which the Environmental Information and Education Centre plays an integral operational role.

Discussions underscored the transformative power of environmental education in conserving biodiversity, driving public awareness, and boosting civic engagement. Delegates further reviewed the Centre’s ongoing international projects and explored opportunities to expand cross-border partnerships.