Reforestation in Koriukivka
The Chernihiv region is one of the poorest in Ukraine, due in part to the long-lasting consequences of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster. The ongoing war is placing additional strain on the area, with rocket attacks and frequent power cuts further impacting daily life. This is why the region is a key focus of Green Cross Switzerland’s (GCCH) work.
Many people are unaware of the extent to which the war is harming ecosystems and the climate, causing widespread environmental damage. Vast areas of forest, for example, have been severely affected or destroyed. Reforestation can play a vital role in restoring nature — and not only in the context of war. Even before the conflict, the proportion of Ukraine’s land covered by forest was comparatively low by international standards. Switzerland, for instance, has roughly twice the level of forest cover, in terms of the share of national territory.
That is why, in October 2025, GCCH launched a large-scale reforestation project in the municipality of Koriukivka in the Chernihiv region. A total of 100,000 tree seedlings will be planted across 17 hectares — the equivalent of around 24 football pitches — to help restore damaged forest areas and revitalise the region’s ecosystem.
The planting is being carried out in cooperation with the municipality and forms part of a long-term initiative. The aim is not only to create new forested areas, but also to support further environmental and social projects that contribute to the sustainable development of the community. At the same time, the initiative seeks to strengthen awareness of environmental responsibility.
This awareness-raising is particularly important for children and young people. As part of the reforestation project, they receive reusable water bottles, caps, badges, notebooks and pens made from recycled materials. These serve as reminders that even the smallest contribution to restoring and regenerating nature has great value.
Teachers, volunteers and local residents are also taking part in the initiative. “It’s wonderful to see how small seedlings will one day grow into a large forest,” says a teacher. A resident shares this optimistic outlook: “We have lived through difficult times, but we can see nature recovering alongside us.”
The Mayor of Koriukivka, Ratan Akhmedov, also stresses the importance of the project: “For our community, this is not only an ecological initiative, but also a symbol of renewal and faith in the future.”
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