Maia Bitadze, Chairperson of the Environmental Protection and Natural Resources Committee, attended the presentation of the initial phase of the restoration and development of Rustavi Floodplain Forest.

"In collaboration of the Parliament, the Environmental and Agriculture Ministry, and Rustavi City Hall, we have commenced a substantial ecological project in Rustavi.

It is noteworthy that this initiative is not the sole joint undertaking, but it also addresses the air pollution concerns prevalent in the city.

While tangible outcomes, such as the restoration of the floodplain forest or the prevention of air pollution, have yet to be achieved, our collective efforts have laid a solid foundation for future improvements in both visual and ecological aspects. Notably, the restoration of the Rustavi floodplain forest represents the first project funded by the Global Environmental Facility, and the allocated funds are being deliberately consumed to specific objectives", - she stated.

The presentation was introduced by the Mayor of Rustavi, Nino Latsabidze. According to her, Rustavi will soon start the decades’ ecological project addressing the air quality issues and aiming at the improvement of the ecosystem.

As mentioned, the initial phase of the project entails the development of 320 hectares by planting 20,000 oak, elm, and silverberry trees. Additionally, the project encompasses the establishment of travel routes and information desks.

The presentation was attended by MP, Delegate for Rustavi, Irakli Shatakishvili; the First Deputy Environment Minister, Nino Tandilashvili; the State Trustee to Kvemo Kartli, Levan Kharavadze; as well as the representatives of the local authorities and environmental defenders.

The project is funded by the GEF; it represents the inaugural project implemented with assets accumulated as a consequence of the compensation for the environmental damage.