The Green Path: An Ecological Corridor for Egypt

When we talk about the Nile Valley in Egypt, we immediately think of its unique landscapes, rich in ecological diversity and teeming with biodiversity. Protected areas, such as the Ashtoum El-Gamil, Burullus, and Qaroun nature reserves, are true treasures for the environment. They play a central role in protecting ecosystems and combating major challenges like climate change. However, these areas are not immune to threats such as habitat degradation, soil erosion, and uncontrolled urban expansion, which seriously endanger this fragile balance. In response to these challenges, the Youth Foundation for Development and Creativity (YDI) has launched an ambitious project: The Green Path to Improve Air Quality, an initiative that combines biodiversity preservation, air quality improvement, and the empowerment of local communities.

A Project Rooted in Nature and Communities

The Green Path is much more than just a tree-planting project. It is a comprehensive initiative aimed at restoring degraded ecosystems, improving air quality, and raising awareness among local communities about the importance of environmental protection. By relying on nature-based solutions, the project seeks to create a sustainable balance between humans and their environment while offering economic and social opportunities to local populations.

The project focuses on five Egyptian governorates: Cairo, Port Said, Suez, Kafr El-Sheikh, and Fayoum. These regions are home to some of the country’s most important nature reserves, as well as communities that depend directly on these ecosystems for their livelihoods. By restoring these areas, the project not only protects biodiversity but also improves the living conditions of local residents.

Concrete Actions for Lasting Impact

Planting to Preserve

One of the first actions of the project is to plant 1,250 trees along the roads leading to the nature reserves. These trees, carefully selected for their adaptability to local conditions, play a crucial role in stabilizing soil, reducing erosion, and creating habitats for wildlife, particularly migratory birds. In addition to their ecological benefits, these trees help improve air quality, providing a healthier environment for local communities. Species such as acacia and tamarisk, known for their resilience to arid and saline conditions, ensure long-term survival and impact.

 Revitalizing Ecotourism

Egypt’s nature reserves are ecological gems, yet they often remain unknown to the general public. The project aims to breathe new life into these landscapes by restoring 5 key areas around the reserves. The goal is to attract over 1,000 visitors per year to these zones, generating income for local communities while raising awareness among visitors about the importance of protecting these natural spaces. By developing ecotourism, the project creates sustainable economic opportunities, with the aim of generating 50 local jobs related to site management and tourist services.

Raising Awareness and Engaging Communities

No project can succeed without the involvement of local communities. That’s why the YDI Foundation organizes 5 awareness workshops in each governorate, reaching over 500 participants. These workshops, combined with field visits and educational campaigns, aim to equip residents with the tools and knowledge they need to become key players in preserving their natural heritage. Additionally, 100 local volunteers will be trained to actively participate in tree-planting and monitoring activities.

By combining these initiatives, the project goes beyond simple reforestation or awareness-raising. It is a holistic approach that combines environmental protection with improving the living conditions of local residents. After all, protecting nature also means securing a better future for those who depend on it.

Project Information

  • Organization Name: Youth Foundation for Development and Creativity
  • Project Amount: 15,152 euros
  • Implementation Period: From September 1, 2024, to February 15, 2025
  • Contact Information: Phone: +201000697070 / Email: info@ydi-eg.com
  • Project Address: Cairo, Egypt (working in protected areas in Cairo, Port Said, Suez, Kafr El-Sheikh, and Fayoum)

This project is implemented as part of the third phase of the Small Initiatives Program for Civil Society Organizations in North Africa (PPI OSCAN), coordinated by the IUCN Centre for Mediterranean Cooperation. It is funded by the French Global Environment Facility (FFEM), the MAVA Foundation, and the Sigrid Rausing Trust. The supported initiatives aim to restore ecosystems and promote sustainable livelihoods in regions with high biodiversity. To learn more about PPI OSCAN 3 projects, visit: MUBADARAT.