Environmental Initiatives in Turkey and Georgia: Leading the Way Toward a Sustainable Future

As Shota continues his journey through Europe and Asia, he discovers inspiring environmental initiatives in Turkey and Georgia. Both countries, with their unique landscapes and challenges, are leading the way in sustainable practices. They are harnessing renewable energy sources and protecting their rich biodiversity. In Turkey, geothermal and solar energy projects are transforming the energy landscape. Local efforts in permaculture and reforestation are healing ecosystems. In Georgia, hydroelectric power generation and eco-tourism initiatives showcase how small nations can make a big impact on global sustainability. Join Shota as he explores these efforts and reflects on the power of local actions in the fight against climate change.

Chapter 11: The Ecological Odyssey

Turkey – The Crossroads of Civilizations and Renewable Energies

After exploring Moldova, Shota took a long bus ride to Turkey. This country, straddling Europe and Asia, represented a true crossroads of civilizations. His first stop was Istanbul, a city bursting with history and culture. But beyond its iconic landmarks, Shota found himself particularly interested in Turkey’s energy transition.

He learned that Turkey had made significant strides in renewable energy, particularly with geothermal and solar energy projects. The country benefited from a favorable geographic location to harness these resources. The Turkish government had launched an ambitious program to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix, aligning with its efforts to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Shota also visited rural areas of Turkey where local initiatives in permaculture and reforestation aimed to restore ecosystems damaged by decades of poor management. These projects aimed to recreate habitats for local wildlife and improve soil quality.

Shota continued his journey with an ever-broader perspective on the importance of global sustainability. Each country he visited reinforced his commitment and that of CGS to a greener future.

Chapter 12: The Ecological Odyssey

Georgia – The Jewel of the Caucasus and Its Commitment to Sustainability

Shota’s journey then took him eastward, through the Caucasus Mountains, to Georgia. He had heard about the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of this small country nestled between Europe and Asia, and he was not disappointed. Upon arriving in the capital, Tbilisi, he immediately noticed the contrast between the old buildings and modern infrastructure, symbols of Georgia’s desire to open up to the world while preserving its unique heritage.

Shota had read that Georgia was a pioneer in hydroelectric power. Thanks to its numerous rivers and mountainous terrain, the country had managed to generate more than 80% of its electricity from this renewable source. Georgian ingenuity impressed him, especially the way this small country committed to reducing its carbon footprint despite significant economic challenges.

During his stay, he visited Borjomi National Park, famous for its mineral springs and efforts in biodiversity conservation. Walking through the trails of this ancient forest, Shota realized the importance of preserving such unique natural places.

He noted in his journal:

---

“The forests of the Caucasus are among the oldest and richest in biodiversity in the world. Yet, they are threatened by deforestation and climate change. Protecting these ecosystems is crucial not only for Georgia but for the entire planet”.

– Shota Fujino

---

Shota also met young Georgian entrepreneurs who were working to transform their country into a hub for eco-tourism. They firmly believed that promoting environmentally friendly tourism could both protect nature and boost the local economy. Their enthusiasm and determination to create a more sustainable future for their country inspired him.

Before leaving Georgia, Shota took a moment to reflect on the impact this experience had on him: “Every country I have visited so far has contributed something different to my understanding of sustainability. Georgia has shown me that you don’t have to be a large country to play a significant role in the fight against climate change. It is often the smallest nations, with their local initiatives and community efforts, that have the greatest impact.”

Shota’s journey through Turkey and Georgia has been a powerful reminder of the profound impact that local environmental initiatives can have on global sustainability. From Turkey’s innovative geothermal and solar energy projects to Georgia’s dedication to hydroelectric power and eco-tourism, both countries are demonstrating that meaningful change can start at the grassroots level. As Shota reflects on these experiences, it’s clear that no matter the size of a nation, its efforts toward sustainability contribute to a collective movement for a greener, more resilient future. These environmental initiatives not only benefit the countries involved but also inspire a global commitment to protecting our planet for generations to come.

Follow Shota’s journey across 15 inspiring chapters! Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated and never miss a chapter of Shota’s journey!

• Summary: The Ecological Odyssey: From the Heart of Europe to Asia 
• Chapter 1 & 2 : The Ecological Odyssey: From the Heart of Rotterdam to Berlin
• Chapter 3 & 4 : The Ecological Odyssey: Austria and Slovenia’s Green Secrets
• Chapter 5 & 6 : Sustainable Development in the Balkans: The Ecological Odyssey
• Chapter 7 & 8 : Sustainable Transition Heritage: Pioneering a Bold Green Revolution
• Chapter 9 & 10 : The Hidden Power of Sustainable Development
• Chapter 11 & 12 : Powerful Environmental Initiatives for a Greener Future
• Chapter 13 & 14 : Sustainable Energy Exploring Russia’s Green Energy Transition
• Chapter 15 & Shota Testimony : Sustainable Job Opportunities Japan: Eco-Friendly Careers