Eco-activist Aida Ramiz: “The population returning to Karabakh should be thoroughly ecologically educated about the unique ecosystem of the region, biodiversity and the importance of conservation, training in hospitality, guiding and other tourism-related skills should be organized to create employment opportunities”
“Ecotourism in Karabakh and it is possible to create educational institutions aimed at sustainable development”
Environmental protection in our liberated territories, compliance with ecotourism standards and proper use of the region’s potential in this regard are important factors in economic reintegration. The massive return of the population to our liberated territories, the creation of settlements and modern infrastructure there has returned Karabakh to our society. However, the mass settlement of these areas, at the same time, the growing international interest in Karabakh, and the desire to travel by foreign tourists make the setting of tourism, especially ecotourism standards, urgent in the region. Opinions and proposals of experts and scientists on the subject are of interest to our society.
Our interviewer is “Profit Co.” The head of the company’s public relations department is eco-activist Aida Ramiz.
-Protecting the environment in our liberated areas, including water bodies and their bioresources, as well as other natural resources, is also important in terms of compliance with the principles of “green growth” in our country. does. In this context, how do you evaluate the measures implemented in our country, including in the liberated areas?
-In order to achieve sustainable development against the background of increasing concerns about environmental problems, rapid pollution of the environment, decreasing natural resources and increasing demand for resources. The measures implemented in the direction of expanding the “green” economy are of great importance. It is no coincidence that in “Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for socio-economic development” approved by President Ilham Aliyev, the 5th priority is called “The country of clean environment and “green growth”. Realization of “green” development and “green” economy in Karabakh is not only desirable, but also important for several critical reasons. “Green” growth can prioritize restoration activities such as reforestation, land reclamation, and water treatment. Karabakh also has rich biodiversity, including unique flora and fauna. This growth can also protect ecosystems and prevent future losses. Green industries such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and ecotourism can also create job opportunities for local people. “Green growth” can help diversify the region’s economy, reduce dependence on traditional industries, and increase resilience to economic shocks.By prioritizing environmental protection, the “green” economy ensures the long-term sustainability of the region’s development. “Green growth” can help Karabakh adapt to the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather events and water scarcity. I can also point out that investing in “green” infrastructure, such as flood control and erosion protection, can reduce the risk of natural disasters. Most importantly, a clean environment and access to clean water and air are important for the health and well-being of the people.
– Taking advantage of the potential of ecotourism by following the principles of “green growth” and thereby contributing to the effective reintegration of those areas is also economically profitable. . It is also reported that the touristic potential of that region is high. In this regard, what steps should be taken to develop ecotourism in those areas?
– Introducing Karabakh as a green and sustainable region can raise the international image and reputation of Azerbaijan as a leader in the field of environmental protection. “Green” projects can attract foreign investment and technology that contribute to the development of the region. At the same time, the most important thing is that this recognition can attract the flow of tourists to the country. Azerbaijan has always been a country envied by everyone. Our lands are literally gold. Here, there are all kinds of blessings, environment, nature, relief, in short, everything that will arouse the interest of tourists. In parallel with the development of sustainable infrastructure, as it is now, the accessibility of tourists to places in the region should be ensured. Economic benefits should be explored, business opportunities should be opened, so that the chances of attracting tourists to the liberated areas will also increase. Our freed territories should be promoted and promoted more in international arenas.
-Education of the population relocated to the regions within the framework of the Great Return, ecotourism enthusiasts, amateur fishermen and other groups in terms of environment and ecotourism is the need of the day. What actions are needed in this direction?
-Educated and engaged population is necessary for the successful implementation of ecotourism in Karabakh. The resettled population should be given comprehensive environmental education about the unique ecosystem of the region, biodiversity and the importance of conservation, training in hospitality, guiding and other tourism-related skills should be organized to create employment opportunities. can also be supplied. In order to enrich the ecotourism experience, it is necessary to promote the preservation of local culture and traditions. Here, you can even create educational institutions focused on ecotourism and sustainable development. Voluntary programs should be organized for environmental protection and community development. In addition, special campaigns should be conducted to promote environmental awareness and responsible tourism. It is possible to cooperate with NGOs, academic institutions and international organizations and organize interesting actions.
-Measures related to the protection of bioresources and living things in water basins are also important in liberated areas. What measures can be taken to prevent illegal hunting and poaching? What are your suggestions?
-This is a very sensitive issue and there should be continuous education in the conservation of bioresources. The local population should be consistently educated, concrete rules and even new bans should be introduced so that the incidence of illegal hunting is drastically reduced. The liberated territories are not only a sacred and sensitive topic for us, but the nature of this place is also native to us. That’s why we have to preserve nature and bioresources. My suggestion is that we use improved technologies.It is necessary to use modern technologies such as drones, thermal cameras, and GPS tracking for continuous monitoring of important areas.
The article was carried out by the Public Union for Integration into the Globalizing World with the financial support of the State Support Agency for Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan. was developed within the framework of the “ecotourism standards” project. The position of the author or the interviewee and the position of the State Support Agency for Non-Governmental Organizations may not be consistent.