In the result of the cooperation of the Foundation for the Preservation Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC) and VivaCell-MTS, electric bike charging solar stations were installed on the territory of the second ranger campus of the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge and Urtsadzor Community of Ararat Region in the frames of the Green Mobility project of the Sunchild non- governmental organization.
Electric bike station is equipped with solar panels and batteries. The bicycles are charged exclusively with solar power free of any harmful emissions. The project aims to foster eco-tourism.
A solar water heater was launched in “Holani” processing unit of Shaghap village of Ararat Region in frames of the green events. Environment friendly water heating system heats up to 300 L water without any emissions. “Holani” is a social enterprise. Its generated revenue is spend on the cluster`s social and economic development to reduce poverty.
To increase efficiency of work in the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge VivaCell-MTS General Manager Ralph Yirikian financed the purchase of 2 pickups (by his own financial means) adjusted to and equipped with all the necessary devices for fire extinguishing works. The pickups have relevant field works equipment. They were presented to the CWR and will be used for rapid response to prevent forest fires.
IUCN NL and British World Land Trust also supported the purchase of the pickups.
“Everyone’s deeper perception of the importance of environmental protection would help those who live now and the generations ahead to lead healthier life. Green technologies are immensely important not just because they are in the trend these days: people all over the world opt for green lifestyle, because they understand the real threats of living a life without caring about the environment. We have been sharing this approach for more than ten years now with our partner organization and strive to always be guided by that. I am happy to say the planned programs will have a positive impact on creating a clear environment as well as community and eco-tourism development,” said VivaCell-MTS General Manager Ralph Yirikian.
Bicycles can be rent or charged in the electric bike charging solar station. Green Mobility has been implemented by the Sunchild NGO in the frames of UNDP GEF SGP with the support of the FPWC and VivaCell-MTS. The goal of the project is to promote the use of electric bicycles as an alternative means of transportation, free of greenhouse gas emissions.