Viva and the environmental NGO My Forest Armenia are continuing their partnership to promote greener thinking and long-term afforestation in Armenia. Since 2022, the partners have been running projects aimed at expanding forest ecosystems, preserving biodiversity and lowering the risks associated with natural disasters.
Under the programme, saplings of native tree and shrub species grown from seed are moved from nurseries to planting sites, using both closed-root and open-root systems. Over the course of the partnership, Viva and My Forest Armenia have carried out reforestation work at three locations in the Lori region. The sites were selected not only for suitable climate conditions but also with the goal of helping prevent potential landslides.
This year, the work is focused on the Dzorashen community in the Shirak region, where the new forest will be named after renowned chansonnier Charles Aznavour. Viva General Director Armen Avetisian said that while no country is immune to natural disasters, consistent long-term steps can help reduce risks and protect biodiversity. He added that the initiative also supports the expansion of Armenia’s forest cover and the balance of water resources.
Dzorashen’s mountainous terrain is marked by rich volcanic soils, an open landscape and a strong ability to retain natural moisture. These features create favourable conditions for planting native trees and shrubs and for building a resilient ecosystem. The partners’ approach is also in line with the priorities of international organisations working on environmental protection and disaster risk reduction.
Andre Gumuchdjian, founder and CEO of My Forest Armenia, said Viva takes part in the NGO’s reforestation initiatives every year and has shown a consistent approach to environmental challenges. In his view, this year’s participation in establishing the Charles Aznavour Forest carries both environmental and social value and also serves as a tribute to the distinguished compatriot linked to the region.
Creating one hectare of forest is a long-term process. It takes at least three years to secure the initial survival of saplings, 10 to 15 years for resilient young forest stands to form, and more than 50 years for a mature forest ecosystem to emerge. In Armenia, where forest cover stands at just 11%, Viva and My Forest Armenia have jointly planted more than 56,000 trees and carried out reforestation work across about 19 hectares.
