The Caucasus Nature Fund has partnered with the Tufenkian Foundation, allocating €70,000 (approximately $79,300) to support Tufenkian’s large-scale resettlement initiative for displaced Artsakh families. This initiative is part of a wider Tufenkian Foundation program to revitalize Syunik’s villages, including investment in physical and social infrastructure and economic development. The program is being piloted with a $2+ million effort that includes settling 20 displaced families in the village of Svarants, located near the Tatev monastery.
CNF’s strategic funding will co-finance enhanced thermal insulation for the new homes being constructed in Svarants village and provide beehives for displaced families, combining sustainable housing with livelihood development opportunities. Many rural families in Armenia heat their homes with firewood, which is often harvested from local forests. The homes’ improved energy efficiency will reduce demand for firewood, helping to protect at-risk habitats like the Zangezur Sanctuary adjacent to Svarants. The Zangezur Biosphere Complex–one of the region’s largest protected areas–provides crucial habitat for threatened species, including the Caucasus leopard.
As part of the partnership, resettled families interested in beekeeping will receive beehives, providing an opportunity to generate income through honey production while contributing to local biodiversity. Bees play an essential role as pollinators, helping agriculture become more productive while supporting the resilience of native plants. CNF’s support aims to promote sustainable and environmentally safe development in the community.
The grant agreement was signed by Arman Vermishyan, Country Director – Armenia and Greg Bedian, Director of the Tufenkian Foundation.
