To mark Sevan Protection Day on 24 August, pupils and teachers from several Communities around Lake Sevan took part to a beach clean-up event in Sevan Lake area.
Children cleaning the beach - ©OIEau
This event was organized by the European Union Water Initiative Plus for the Eastern Partnership (EUWI+) in co-operation with Armenian Ministry of Ecology, Water Committee under the Ministry of Territorial Administrations and Infrastructure, Gegharkunik Regional Authorities, Country Water Partnership Armenia and Sevan National Park.
About 500 meters of beach cleaned-up and 60 bags of litter collected
About 500 meters of coastal area between the Norashen and Tsovazard communities of Sevan National Park were cleaned-up. 60 bags of litter were collected during this action that follows a series of past green celebrations organized with children and teachers, aiming at raising awareness on water issues.
Children cleaning the beach - ©OIEau
For the 2019 edition of Lake Sevan protection Day, the Young European Ambassadors participated in the clean-up activity. The “Young European Ambassadors” initiative aims to foster cooperation and sustainable links between young people and youth organisations from the EU and its Eastern partner countries. They facilitate the mutual exchange of ideas and information on the EU, as well as the engagement of young people in informative activities.
The Young European Ambassadors - ©OIEau
Tying awareness raising on water pollution with local water issues
After cleaning the beach, children listened to a presentation of the protection activities of the Sevan National Park made by Mr Vahagn Sargsyan, chief specialist (Ministry of Environment: Bioresources Management Agency, Division of Ecotourism Development). This park was established in 1978 with the aim of protecting the important high mountainous lake ecosystem.
On the left: Mr Vahagn Sargsyan, chief specialist (Ministry of Environment:
Bioresources Management Agency, Division of Ecotourism Development) - ©OIEau
By encouraging young people to understand the effects of their behaviour on water, its quality, and ecosystems, this event increases their engagement into water protection actions.