Georgia:Â The Agricultural Scientific and Research Center (SRCA) also participated in International Forest Day, celebrated on March 21, to raise awareness about the importance of forests. In 2024, the motto of the International Day of Forests is “Forests and innovations: new solutions for a better world”.
Within the framework of the campaign, students from different forestry universities participated in the planting campaign at the Jighaura Scientific and Research Center’s trial demonstration base, along with the employees of the centre’s research service for agroforestry.Â
They were adding rare species of beetles, tempura, and Meyer’s rabbit to the agroforestry collection, as well as kotsakhuri, tutubo, afghani, highland maple, horseshoe, and evergreen oak to the section of imported and ornamental species.
“44% of the territory of Georgia is covered by forest, which is distinguished by the biodiversity of plants. It’s our goal to preserve this biodiversity. About 400 species of succulent plants grow naturally in Georgian forests. Some species are at high risk of extinction. The Agricultural Research Center responds to the annual campaign celebrating International Forest Day and enriches the agroforest collection with new species. Planting each tree means improving the environment, as well as more oxygen and carbon sequestration. Allevan Ujmajuridze, Director of the Scientific and Research Center, noted.
It is worth noting that the Jighaura Agroforest Cultures Collection was established in 2015 to conserve and protect forest cultures. The vast majority of the species are endemic. The collection consists of 4 sections where over 100 species of forest plants grow, including East Georgia’s primary forest-forming species, wild tree ancestors, rare and endangered species and more.
Forests play a major role and function for mankind globally and for individual countries. Nevertheless, the statistics on forest loss and degradation are alarming. Every year, 10 million/ha of forests are cut down worldwide. Amidst this challenge, the United Nations General Assembly declared March 21, 2012, the International Day of Forests to celebrate and raise awareness about the importance of forests of all kinds.
