“Under the ‘My First Sapling’ Programme, First Graders Will Plant Their First Sapling Each Year and Care for It Until They Finish School”

Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture Davit Songulashvili highlighted the importance of the “My First Sapling” project, noting that the government-approved state programme will help first graders develop environmental awareness and a responsible attitude towards nature from an early age.

According to the minister, the project will begin on 22 October, as part of International Tree Planting Day, and continue for one month. More than 41,000 first graders across Georgia will participate, each planting their first sapling. Activities will follow a schedule tailored to the specific conditions of each region and municipality.

“This is a very important, large-scale project that will give every first grader across Georgia the opportunity to plant their first sapling. This year, more than 41,000 first graders will participate in the initiative, which will teach children to care for the environment and develop a special connection with nature from an early age. The project will be financed through resources allocated to repairing environmental damage. This will allow us both to restore the environment and to teach our children environmental responsibility from childhood,” said Davit Songulashvili.

He added that the programme will place particular emphasis on the continued care and monitoring of the saplings planted by children. An online platform will be created to enable each child to track their sapling’s growth and development.

“The project will begin on 22 October and run for one month across Georgia, following an agreed schedule. Planting sites and saplings will be selected according to the specific conditions of each region and municipality. The process will involve the ministries responsible for environmental protection and agriculture, education, and regional development, as well as municipalities, Tbilisi City Hall, schools, teachers, principals, and parents.

“An online platform will be created, allowing each child to observe the growth and development of the tree they have planted. ‘My First Sapling’ will be an annual programme, linking the start of school for each new intake of first graders with this important initiative. By the time they finish school, they will leave behind a mature tree that will contribute to a healthier, greener environment,” the minister noted.