The Center for Regional Initiatives, known as “Bright Future,” is making significant strides in enhancing community engagement and awareness regarding climate change. This ambitious initiative, which won the EU-funded small grants competition held within CENN’s Climate Action Project aims to inform youth, civil servants, and the local population about climate change while showcasing the benefits of renewable energy and energy efficiency in the municipalities of Chiatura, Tkibuli, and Zestafoni.
Implementation of Solar-Powered Solutions
A notable highlight of the project was the installation of solar-powered, energy-efficient sensor lights. In total, 57 (19 per municipalty) solar lights were placed in designated public areas, enhancing both safety and sustainability in these communities.
Through intensive meetings with representatives from Zestafon, Tkibuli, and Chiatura, the project team worked closely with local officials to plan and execute these installations. “The selection of locations and the installation of lights were coordinated with the municipality’s mayor’s office, ensuring local buy-in and responsibility for maintenance,” a representative noted.
This initiative not only provides practical benefits in terms of lighting but also serves as a tangible representation of the community’s commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency solutions.
Building a Sustainable Future Together
Bright Future’s efforts extend beyond immediate awareness, they aim to cultivate a culture of sustainability within the Imereti region. By fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among local residents, the organization is laying the groundwork for long-term environmental stewardship.
“The success of our project is not just measured by the activities we’ve completed, but by the ongoing commitment of the community to engage with these issues,” Vacharadze stated. This perspective emphasizes the importance of sustaining momentum in climate action and adapting to future challenges.
A Comprehensive Approach to Climate Awareness
The primary goal of the project is to increase awareness among various demographics about the impacts of climate change and the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources. To achieve this, Bright Future has undertaken several key initiatives designed to educate and engage the community.
One of the first steps was the production and distribution of 950 informational triplets focused on energy efficiency and the advantages of renewable energy sources. These materials serve as vital educational tools, providing residents with essential information they can apply in their daily lives.
Community Engagement Through PR Actions
To further amplify their message, project volunteers conducted public relations activities across nine different locations, distributing the informational triplets. These activities took place in strategic areas, including Zestafoni, Kvirike settlement, St. Tkibuli, and several villages within Tkibuli municipality. During these PR actions, volunteers donned branded hoodies to enhance visibility and create a cohesive team presence.
The hands-on approach adopted by the volunteers allowed them to engage directly with community members, fostering a sense of collective responsibility towards addressing climate issues. “We wanted to create a visible presence in the community,” a representative Marika Vacharadze shared, highlighting the importance of engaging with residents in their own environments.
Thematic Trainings for Effective Learning
In addition to PR activities, Bright Future organized thematic trainings in Chiaturia, Tkibuli, and Zestafon. These sessions targeted young people and municipal representatives, covering vital topics such as the impact of climate change on daily life, the benefits of energy efficiency, and the implications of the A+ standard on family economies.
Inviting municipal representatives from the Public Health Center as speakers added depth to these sessions. They addressed climate change in the context of human health, emphasizing preventive measures that families can adopt. This multifaceted approach underscores the interconnectedness of environmental issues and public health, reinforcing the notion that climate change affects every aspect of life.
A Call to Action for Broader Engagement
Reflecting on the project’s outcomes, the need for greater community involvement is clear. “Engaging more people in the process is crucial. Providing information to a larger audience helps in planning effective actions,” the representative emphasized. The initiative illustrates how education, collaboration, and community engagement can create a ripple effect, inspiring individuals to take proactive steps in their own lives.
Moreover, the project serves as a model for other regions looking to implement similar climate change awareness programs. By focusing on tangible actions, such as renewable energy and energy efficiency installations and educational initiatives, communities can not only raise awareness but also achieve measurable impacts.
As Bright Future continues its mission to empower communities in the face of climate change, their work highlights the importance of collaboration, education, and sustainable practices. By investing in community engagement, they are not only addressing the immediate challenges posed by climate change but also fostering a culture of resilience and responsibility for future generations. The journey toward a sustainable future requires collective effort, and through initiatives like this, the groundwork is being laid for meaningful change across the Imereti region.
Since 2021, CENN has been implementing a four-year project, the Georgia Climate Action Program, with the financial support of the European Union. The project is being carried out in four target regions: Kakheti, Imereti, Guria, and Racha-Lechkhumi, and its aim is to increase civil society engagement in the development and implementation of climate change policies.
As part of the project, CENN announced the competition for the innovative ideas on climate change mitigation and adaptation. The Bright Future is one of the winners, implementing a 9,000 EURO initiative for climate mitigation.
