Revival of the Getar River
Yerevan, Armenia
3rd FUNDING CALL
The Getar River is a vital natural resource, yet it faces significant pollution challenges. In response, our project, Revival of the Getar River, is a student-driven initiative aimed at restoring the river’s health through scientific research, community engagement, and hands-on environmental action. By bringing together students, teachers, local NGOs, and community representatives, we hope to not only clean the river but also inspire a long-term commitment to its preservation.
Objectives
The project has three key objectives:
- Pollution Reduction: Implement cleaning efforts to improve water quality and restore the river’s ecosystem.
- Environmental Education: Engage students in scientific research and practical activities to understand the importance of water ecosystems.
- Community Involvement: Connect students, local organizations, and community members to develop sustainable conservation solutions.
Activities and Collaborations
Our approach involves a series of engaging and educational activities that empower students to take meaningful action. These activities are implemented in collaboration with schools, NGOs, environmental organizations, and local authorities.
1. Creation of an Eco Club (February)
We established an Eco Club comprising 30 students (7th-8th grade) focused on protecting the environment and improving water quality. Their tasks include research, education, cleaning campaigns, public awareness initiatives, and collaboration with public and private sectors.
2. Research and Water Testing (February-March)
Monitoring groups conduct detailed studies on Getar River pollution, collaborating with government agencies for data collection. Water quality is tested in school and university labs to determine key pollutants and inform remediation strategies.
As part of our research activities, a water quality study of the Getar River was conducted by students using biological indicators. Water samples were taken from two different parts of the river and analyzed in groups. Students filtered the water from branches, stones and examined the samples using magnifying glasses and microscopes.
“By identifying and quantifying aquatic micro-organisms, they were able to determine the saprobic index and water quality class of the Getar River. Using tables and bioindicator charts, they calculated that the water currently falls under Pollution Class 4, indicating a high level of pollution.
In parallel with the research, our students have also actively participated in clean-up initiatives along the riverbank, collecting trash and raising awareness. This is part of an annual effort we continue each year. In addition, our students regularly carry out clean-up activities in the school area, not limited to the river surroundings.”
3. ‘Getar Without Garbage’ Clean-Up Campaign (April)
Eco Club students lead a large-scale riverbank cleanup, installing signs that remind visitors to keep the area clean. The initiative is promoted through social media and informational booklets.
4. Useful Recycling Initiative (May)
Plastic waste collected from the river is repurposed into creative public art pieces, demonstrating the importance of recycling.
5. ‘Getar River in the Future’ Contest (May)
Students imagine and visualise what the Getar River could look like in 10 years. A photo contest showcases their perspectives on conservation, with prizes for the best submissions.
6. Reducing Plastic Waste (June)
Students design and create eco-friendly cloth bags with conservation messages, raising awareness about plastic pollution through an exhibition.
7. Tree Planting (September)
To restore the river’s ecosystem, students plant trees along the banks, reducing soil erosion and improving air quality.
8. ‘Wall of Promises’ Community Engagement (October)
A schoolyard event invites students, parents, and community members to pledge their commitment to protecting the river. Messages such as “I promise to keep the river clean” are displayed on a symbolic ‘Wall of Promises.’
9. Paper Recycling Project (October)
Students create environmental-themed postcards from recycled paper, sharing messages about sustainability with other schools.
10. Final Event and Conference (November)
A grand closing event presents the project’s outcomes, celebrates student achievements, and outlines future conservation efforts. Representatives from ProBleu and other stakeholders are invited to participate.
Outputs and Impact
The Revival of the Getar River project is designed to create lasting change by fostering environmental responsibility and scientific literacy among students. Key expected outcomes include:
Long-term impact through continuous student-led efforts and integration of the project into school curricula.
Improved water quality through consistent cleanup efforts and pollution reduction strategies.
Increased community awareness about water conservation through educational materials and public engagement.
Hands-on student learning in scientific research, problem-solving, and environmental stewardship.
Sustainable partnerships with local organisations, strengthening collective action for river conservation.
Funded by the European Union