David Songulashvili Inspects Progress of the "Tbilisi Urban Forest" Project

Georgia's Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, David Songulashvili, visited the Tbilisi Urban Forest project to inspect the progress of the ongoing works.

According to the Minister, projects of this scale create new opportunities to improve the city's environmental conditions, contribute to biodiversity conservation, and play an important role in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

"We attach particular importance to projects that combine forest restoration, biodiversity conservation, and the development of modern urban spaces. The Tbilisi Urban Forest is an excellent example of how cooperation between the state and the private sector can deliver long-term results that simultaneously improve the country's environmental conditions and contribute to Georgia's sustainable development goals. As part of the project, nearly 700 hectares of land have already been rehabilitated across Tbilisi, and close to 700,000 tree seedlings 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," said David Songulashvili.

It is noteworthy that the Tbilisi Urban Forest project, implemented with the support of the Cartu Foundation, is nearing completion. The project aims to restore green spaces across Tbilisi, strengthen urban ecosystems, and improve recreational opportunities for residents.

As part of the project, nearly 700 hectares of land have been rehabilitated, approximately 700,000 tree seedlings have been planted, and nearly 45 kilometers of walking and cycling trails have been upgraded, including the construction of almost 20 kilometers of new trails. During the implementation phase, approximately 52,000 dead trees were removed, and four new wells were installed to provide irrigation for around 200 hectares of forested land.

To enhance the area's recreational value, a range of small-scale visitor infrastructure has been developed, including benches, scenic viewpoints, gazebos, shelters, and a birdwatching hide. All infrastructure has been carefully integrated into the existing landscape and natural terrain.

The project also places a strong emphasis on biodiversity conservation and the restoration of bird populations. To support this objective, bird breeding and reintroduction methods have been implemented to help restore local populations. As a result, visitors walking along the newly developed trails now have the opportunity to observe birds in their natural habitat.

The Tbilisi Urban Forest project has a total value of GEL 24 million and is fully financed by the International Charity Foundation Cartu.

Minister David Songulashvili was accompanied during the visit by the Deputy Ministers of Environmental Protection and Agriculture and the heads of the Ministry's subordinate agencies.