cenn.org
CENN Annual Report
2006
Our mission CENN’s mission is to foster modern and sustainable development values and practices through bridging society and environment. We strive to build strong and responsible civil society, good governance and accountable business to safeguard our environment and improve people’s life
Our vision . Work with communities and business to develop sustainable solutions to existing challenges . Be innovative and pro-active to respond to global environmental concerns . Provide open and effective multi-stakeholder networking . Be the strongest regional organization in the Caucasus region
Our values . 100% commitment . Quality and professionalism . Accountability and transparency . Partnership and networking . Organizational and HR development . Team working . Inclusiveness and diversity . Creativeness . Positive approach
Our competence . Civil society development and institutional strengthening . Environmental research and policy . Resources management . Compliance management . Communication and environment
Our services . Civil society building . Advising . Consulting
CENN Annual Report 2006
Content Civil society development and institutional strengthening 6 - 12 Environmental research and policy 14 - 16 Resources management 18 - 20 Compliance management 22 - 23 Communication and environment 24 - 26 Financials 27 - 30 CENN community 31 - 34
Message from the Executive Director | Developing the civil society for a sustainable development
We all know that the Caucasus is considered as one ecoregion and a common approach is essential to ensure the sustainable development of the region. When CENN was started back in 1998, there was little or no interaction among environmental activists and specialists in the South Caucasus countries – Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia. People were hugely skeptical about launching a networking and electronic communication initiative in the Caucasus. The region suffered from conflicts, mistrust and difficult economic situations. It doesn’t seem so long ago since CENN effectively operated out of my bedroom. Electricity blackouts, a lack of equipment and poor Internet connection were just some of the challenges we faced. We had, however, a small group of enthusiasts throughout the South Caucasus who were keen on communicating with each other. More importantly, they were highly committed to civil society development and better environmental governance. It was a challenging time considering the circumstances. Happily, the situation today is vastly improved. CENN, with more than 12,000 members, constitutes an active environmental regional initiative in the Caucasus. We have a strong and active team working in five offices in the region. We have had one success story after another. CENN’s uniqueness lies in its regional approach. CENN secret has been to resolutely refuse to concentrate on political issues, which divide and instead it has focused on common environmental concerns that all three countries share. CENN has also distinguished itself as a modern and flexible organization able to adjust and adapt to the needs and circumstances. It was interesting and challenging to evolve and pass through different stages of development. CENN was one of the active organizations in public environmental awareness raising and civil society building in the South Caucasus region in the late 90s. Since the 2003 Rose Revolution in Georgia, and with the rapid governmental changes and the new political agenda, CENN realized that it is vital to play an active watchdogging role over the reforms taking place in the country and actively participate in policy formulation and decision-making at the governmental level. We understand that unless we change our behavior and attitude now, environmental changes could affect our lives badly and we know that it is already happening. Therefore, in 2006, CENN started and was particularly effective, at the grassroots level in engaging the local communities in integrated management of nature resources, mobilizing communities, consumers and resource users into associations, educating and exercising bottom-up activities, organizing public oversight and outreach, challenging the ordinary citizens and youth groups and advertising sustainable lifestyle. CENN was efficient in bridging the public and the government and assisting the authorities through capacity building, advice and consultation to perform better and meet the public demand. We strongly believe that we, together with our partner organizations, have a power to change our own lives and the life of the people around us for the better present and the future. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to our team members and partners. Special thanks go to our donors, as because of your support, we have been able to add meaningful and effective dimensions to our development efforts in the South Caucasus. We hope, together, to continue this partnership. Yours faithfully,
Nana Janashia Executive Director
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Who we are CENN - Caucasus Environmental NGO Network - is a non-governmental, regional organization established in 1998 and specialized in the fields of civil society development and institutional strengthening, environmental research and policy, resources management, compliance management and communication and environment. Since its establishment, CENN has worked at the local, national and regional levels in the Caucasus region. CENN believes in networking and cooperation in the context of environmental issues. We have already a serious record of joint activities and projects implemented regionally, where all three South Caucasus countries participate equally to find the solutions to local and regional environmental problems. CENN works in three major areas: . civil society building, . advising, and . consulting. With five offices in the three South Caucasus countries and 30 full time staff members, CENN has the capability, experience and commitment to providing a service that is consistent, professional and of the highest quality. CENN has around 10 years experience in delivering modern solutions for public and business sectors as well as communities, assisting them in managing their environmental and related risks and helping them achieve competitive advantage through improved environmental and social performance.
CENN history 2006
CENN established: . Bakuriani Tourist Information Center (TIC) . Bakuriani Hotels Association . Samtskhe-Javakheti Public Information Center (PIC) . Qvemo Kartli Public Information Center (PIC) . Adjarian Youth Environmental Network (AYEN) CENN organized the first Caucasus Independent Documentary Film Festival “Footprints” CENN initiated Kura-Araks NGO Forum CENN merged with the ACTA Consultants Georgia Ltd.
2005
CENN established: . Caucasus Youth Environmental Network (CYEN) . Public EIA Library
2004
CENN established: . Energy Services Consumers Association (ESCA) in Tbilisi, Georgia . Bakuriani Public Environmental Information Center (PEIC)
2003
CENN issued the first regional magazine “Caucasus Environment” issued CENN established Bolnisi Public Environmental Information Center (PEIC)
2002
CENN started large scale regional activities in the Caucasus region (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Russian Federation)
2000
CENN was officially registered in Georgia
1998
CENN created Caucasus electronic network CENN started operation, Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the Caucasus environmental NGOs
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cenn.org
a good environment to talk about the environment
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Civil society development and institutional strengthening
Civil society development and institutional strengthening || Our regional philosophy - Baku-Tbilisi-Yerevan Green Pipeline || “Bottom-up� approach || Engaging youth || Environmental Training Courses (ETC)
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| Our regional philosophy - Baku-Tbilisi-Yerevan Green Pipeline | The South Caucasus made up of three countries – Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan. They have different languages, religions, histories, cultures, traditions, political structures and even political orientation. Despite this, all three states share the same region, natural resources and the environment. The Caucasus, in fact, constitutes one ecoregion. Geographically, biologically and ecologically the region has a natural unity, which, of course, only further underlines the need for a regional approach. Accordingly, CENN works on a regional level and believes in regional networking and cooperation in the context of environmental issues. We have a solid track record on joint activities and projects implemented regionally, in which all three countries participate equally to find the solutions to local and regional environmental problems. Environmental issues often lead to tension between peoples, particularly, when economic and social capital is at a minimum. CENN has always held the view, and indeed has worked to realize it, that regional co-operation aimed at a sustainable and equitable management of natural resources can help to strengthen social cohesion and forge bridges across cultural and political boundaries. Peace, which far too often has been elusive in the Caucasus, is strengthened and even guaranteed for future generations. Mirroring the actual oil pipeline stretching across the region, CENN has built its very own Green Pipeline. Considering the animosity and bitterness caused by conflicts in the region, it is a considerable achievement to have been able to get Azeris, Armenians and Georgians to sit down together and discuss and find solutions to regional environmental problems. CENN now has offices not only in Tbilisi but also in Baku and Yerevan. This Green Pipeline allows Georgians, Azeris and Armenians to coordinate and jointly implement projects and activities to their common benefit.
CENN regional e-networking and media outreach Given the need for reliable information, but also understanding that accessing it can be both time consuming and expensive, and even sometimes impossible, CENN has set in place various mechanisms. With the support of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), CENN has developed a unique regional network that gives various non-governmental and governmental organizations, representatives of the private sector as well as scientists and all interested persons an opportunity to exchange information and ideas, communicate and inform each other about their activities, regional and international meetings and initiate new activities.
Electronic networking The most extensive in the region, this is a wonderful information service with more than 12,000 subscribers. CENN electronic service contains news and announcements and is regularly used by the active society members, NGOs, governmental agencies and business as well as international development organizations in all three countries.
Weekly digest and monthly bulletin Subscribers receive a summary of all important events taking place during the week and throughout the month. Both E-newsletters are wonderful opportunities to be informed and updated about all crucial environmental issues. Previous issues can be seen at http://digest.cenn.org/archive.html
E-Library CENN offers a comprehensive and constantly updated collection of electronic books on every aspect of the environmental movement. It’s a free resource and can be accessed at www.cenn.org/env_library/index.php
“Caucasus Environment” magazine This is the only regional environmental magazine, published quarterly and distributed not only in all three countries of the South Caucasus but also worldwide. The magazine is financially supported by SDC. While funders cover much of the costs, there is a partial self-sustainability. Direct sales, subscription and advertisement, although insufficient at the
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moment, look set to play a greater role in the future. So far, there have been 16 issues. Topics have covered the gamut of environmental issues, ranging from wetlands to energy efficiency. Authors have come from academia, the NGO world and journalism. Apart from its obvious function, the magazine also serves as the means of confidence building, cooperation and trust between the people of the region. It encourages open dialogue and communication. The environment can be considered a “soft point” through which more general and strategic issues concerning relations can be discussed. Visit http://magazine.cenn.org to view online versions of the magazine.
Website This is one of the most up-dated informational sources available to those interested in a broad range of environmental issues. One can find here information on environmental activities, projects and events carried out in the region and beyond. It also functions as a useful source of information on environmental organizations working in the region at all levels. In 2006, CENN modernized and made the site more user-friendly, so that more people could use the resources available there. To read more, please visit www.cenn.org
| “Bottom-up” approach | CENN has successfully employed bottom-up strategy while working with communities, consumers and grassroots organizations.
Energy Services Consumers’ Association (ESCA) One such initiative resulted in creation of the Energy Services Consumers’ Association (ESCA) in Tbilisi. The objective of the project was to enhance transparency and establish bottom-up accountability through community mobilization, public education, and consumer representation. Within the project a variety of activities have been carried out – creation of ESCA, regular roundtable meetings between ESCA leaders, consumers and utility and regulator representatives, the development of a school textbook and classes for school children on energy efficiency. Twelve natural leaders were selected and mobilized in six different districts of Tbilisi to serve as intermediaries between consumers and other energy stakeholders. ESCA’s performance was so successful and fruitful that the reach of the project has gone beyond the original six areas and now encompasses the entire city and its hinterlands. The initiative was supported by USAID. CENN is currently working on further expanding ESCA’s scope to include the whole country. The project has been acknowledged as being highly effective and, indeed, is considered a showcase for USAID. Read more at: www.esca.cenn.org
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Public Environmental Information Centers (PEIC) Another good example of a “bottom-up” approach is the Public Environmental Information Centers (PEIC) in Bolnisi (Georgia), Akhtala (Armenia) and Kazakh (Azerbaijan). These centers were established by CENN and its Armenian and Azeri partners within the framework of the project “Local Capacity and Regional Confidence Building and Networking for Promotion of Integrated Water Management in the South Caucasus Countries”, which was supported by the South Caucasus Program of the Eurasia Foundation. The focus was regional, yet it was aimed at building local capacity and confidence for the promotion of integrated water management in the South Caucasus. PEICs that represent the local community actively cooperate with governmental authorities, private sector as well as local, regional and international NGOs. They have already done quite a lot of work at grassroots as well as governmental levels and achieved considerable results. Activities of the Bolnisi PEIC was crucial during the privatization process of the Madneuli cupper mine that represents the Soviet style of enterprise causing serious negative transboundary impact on the environment due to water contamination with heavy metals. The Bolnisi PEIC and CENN mobilized the local communities and prepared the petition to the relevant central governmental authorities, Prime Minister and the President. As the result of the campaign, several environmental and social requirements were included in the Terms of References for the new investor. These environmental and social requirements were critical for the local communities to refer to, when claiming for the safe environment. This was the first case in Georgia when the environmental issues were considered during the privatization process. CENN has also established the PEIC in Bakuriani within the framework of the project “Development of wireless data communication systems in mountain regions,” supported by SDC. The Bakurinai PEIC has been actively involved in assisting the local community in environmentally related problems. In 2006, the Bakuriani PEIC assisted the local community in solving the waste management issues, specifically, PEIC advocated for the community against illegal construction of the dumpsite at the riverbank and demanded from the local authorities to allocate the waste collection lorries to serve the town. The PEIC was the one who demanded from the local authorities elaboration of the Bakuriani Development Master Plan and played a role of a medium between the community and authorities to make the voice of citizens heard. PEICs provide free Internet, an environmental library and regular trainings and seminars to local target groups. Centers have considerable information on activities, problems and processes taking place in the region and play a role of the neutral place where citizens could meet and share concerns with public and private sector representatives.
Bakuriani - Tourist Information Center Since 2003, CENN has actively worked in Bakuriani to support the development of local tourism potential in the region. We started with the Public Environmental Information Center (PEIC) in Bakuriani within the framework of the project “Development of wireless data communication systems in mountain regions,” supported by SDC. The Center has provided access to the Internet and e-mail to the local population, regional and local NGOs and local state authorities as well as tourists visiting Bakuriani. The center has also sought to provide a link between often isolated mountain regions and the rest of the country and to promote tourism development in the mountains. With this in mind, within the project “Strengthening of local communities of the mountain region of Bakuriani” (supported by SDC), CENN established a Tourist Information Center to promote Bakuriani as an attractive tourist destination for national, regional and international visitors.
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The center acts as a tourist bureau providing travel information and booking services. It also offers Internet connection to visitors. The center has its own website - www.bakuriani.cenn.org. Furthermore, CENN developed the Bakuriani Hotel Association. This is a network of local hotels with uniform internal quality standards and a common vision for Bakuriani development. CENN provides association members with trainings on principles of efficient networking and cooperation, the basics of hospitality management, etc. As part of this training, CENN has actively worked with the Institute for International Cooperation of the German Adult Education Association (IIZ DVV). A project, Educational Activities for Improving the Quality of Service in Small Hotels and Guesthouses of Bakuriani, was implemented. Fifteen small hotels and guesthouses in Bakuriani were audited by international experts, who then made specific recommendations on how to improve the services and attract guests. In 2006, CENN also organized a two-day training seminar in “Hotel Management” for Bakuriani hotel managers. To promote Bakuriani as the 4 Seasons Resort CENN developed the Bakuriani tourist map with six tourist routes around the area. The map describes each route in such detail that those who are looking for adventure may do so even without the assistance of a guide. An electronic version of the map can be found on the Bakuriani Tourist Information Center’s website - www.bakuriani.cenn.org
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| Engaging youth | Working with youth and promoting sustainable lifestyle among them is one of the main priorities for CENN. We are looking for young people who are active and ready to be involved in activities that are creative and, at the same time, are capable of changing things for the better.
Caucasus Youth Environmental Network (CYEN) Caucasus Youth Environmental Network (CYEN) was the first attempt to gather young people around environmental issues and build their capacity in a way that allowed them to make their own positive input into the development process. Now, CYEN is one of our most valued partners in the implementation of youth related projects. 2006 was a particularly productive year in this sense:
Caucasus Documentary Film Festival “Footprints” In November CENN together with CYEN hosted the Caucasus Documentary Film Festival “Footprints” and Media Activism and Critical Thinking Seminar in Tbilisi.
Reclaim the streets action In early June, CENN and CYEN hosted a festival called “Footprints” with the slogan “Watch your steps, choose where you are going”. Read more on: www.falkor.org/projects/reportfootprints.html
Green Café Since November 2006, CENN and CYEN have been arranging monthly Green Café.
Eco(logical) action camp An Eco(logical) action camp was organized by CENN together with CYEN members and Bakuriani Tourist Information Center. Read more on: www.cyen.cenn.org
Adjarian Youth Environmental Network (AYEN)
Based on the success of CYEN, CENN initiated a similar kind of organization in Adjara – Adjarian Youth Environmental Network (AYEN). Its focus is on the Black Sea and the popularization of environmental issues relating to the region. Under the umbrella of the project “Public Awareness Raising and Promotion of Public Involvement in the Black Sea Management Process in Adjara Region” (supported by UNDP/GEF - Black Sea Ecosystem Recovery Project), AYEN has carried out a number of activities – street actions, trainings and special classes at schools. AYEN has developed a special web site (http://ayen.cenn.org) that serves as a wonderful source of information for people interested in the Black Sea issues. It is also a virtual meeting place for young people, where they can exchange information and even plan joint activities.
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School Greening Campaigns – folder “energy efficiency at schools” CENN initiated the School Greening Campaigns (Green Flag Competition) and Energy Efficiency Classes in Georgia. Within the framework of the project “Development of Local Capacities and Public Awareness for Better Energy Governance” supported by USAID, CENN developed a special textbooks and school program on energy efficiency. CENN subsequently developed a special project “Energy Efficiency Campaign in the Schools” for schools that was tested in Tbilisi with the support of the OSCE. With this project we strived to raise awareness on energy saving and efficiency issues among students, their teachers and parents.
| Environmental Training Courses | In 2006, CENN started serious work on development of formal training courses for professional environmentalists. To develop training skills and abilities, CENN trainers underwent Training for Trainers, conducted by MDF Training & Consultancy (The Netherlands), with the support of NUFFIC. As a result, 12 CENN trainers were trained and 2 special training courses were prepared and conducted - Instruments of Environmental Assessment (EIA/SEA) and Economic Valuation of Natural Resources. The trainings proved to be very successful. CENN, in cooperation with the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Georgia, has conducted a number of trainings. CENN currently runs both in-house tailored trainings to meet the specific needs of organizations and open training courses in: 1. Integrated Resources Management Planning (IRMP) 2. Economic valuation of natural resources (Economics of Ecology) 3. Principles of sustainable development 4. Global environmental challenges and local responses 5. Instruments of Environmental Assessment (EIA/SEA) 6. Environmental Management Systems (EMS) 7. Environment and Security (ENVSEC) 8. Energy efficiency 9. Energy sector governance 10. Sustainable tourism planning and management 11. Effective community mobilization techniques 12. Public participation in environmental decision making process 13. Effective environmental campaigning 14. Environmental advocacy 15. Aarhus Convention 16. Participatory planning 17. Environmental journalism 18. Youth mobilization and participation in environmental decision making 19. Environmental networking 20. GIS and RS These environmental training courses and programs are designed to update the knowledge and skills of all environmental stakeholders in a short period of time. The target groups are diverse: government officials, decision makers, technical staff (employees of different departments, foresters, rangers, Environmental Inspectors), business people, NGOs, scientists and academics, teachers, students and new recruits. The learning methodology is an interactive one using rich visual elements and a vast number of practical exercises.
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make your office environmentally friendly
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Environmental Research and Policy
Environmental Research and Policy
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To make substantial change towards the sustainability, it is important to support the ongoing reforms with professional research and policy analyses in the field of environment. CENN believes in its potential to contribute in environmental research and policy formulation and, therefore, is actively involved in ongoing processes. In close collaboration with different stakeholders, CENN implemented the project “Strengthening the Environmental Assessment (EIA/SEA) System in the South Caucasus”. The project was implemented with the support of Bank-Netherlands Partnership Program (BNPP) and the World Bank. The main objectives of the project were the improvement of Environmental Assessment (EA) legislation in Georgia and the increase in public environmental awareness. The Law on EA for Georgia has been developed (incorporating provisions both on EIA and SEA) and nation and region wide public awareness campaigns were conducted in the South Caucasus to stimulate active public participation in environmental decision-making through the establishment of a Public EA library in Georgia. Before implementing the Project, CENN thoroughly assessed the Effectiveness of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) System in the South Caucasus Countries together with the Netherlands Commission for EIA and with the financial support of the Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment (VROM). The Assessment aimed at identifying the main shortcomings and needs for the introduction of effective EIA systems, the development of relevant recommendations for the improvement and promotion of cross-border environmental collaboration and sustainable development in the Caucasus, the promotion of cooperation in the field of EIA to tackle cross-border impacts and the development of a network of EIA professionals in the region. The Project identified country specific and region wide needs for the improvement of EIA systems in Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia. With the support of the Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment (VROM) of the Netherlands, CENN also implemented a project aimed at the improvement of EA practice in Georgia through the development of EA implementation tools - sector guidelines that will significantly promote the effective application of the EIA related legal requirements. CENN developed the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) website for the Ministry of Environment Protection and Natural Resources of Georgia and elaborated Environmental Impact Assessment Guidelines for 1. Motorways, Expressways and State Highways, 2. Ports and Terminals Projects, and 3. Solid and Hazardous Waste Disposal Facilities. The Project served as a baseline for the establishment of a Sensitivity Map of Georgia as the most important tool for the improvement of the country’s EIA system. CENN intends to continue with further enhancement and development of this idea. CENN experts were involved in the in the development of a case study report on the introduction of an integrated environmental permitting system for specific manufacturing sectors in Georgia. The project was commissioned by the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD). CENN conducted an analysis of changes in key Georgian environmental laws and regulations necessary for the introduction of an integrated permitting system, contributed with information and analysis to the drafting of the chapter “Institutional Framework for Integrated Permitting”, provided assistance with translation of relevant sections of the Georgian Laws and presented the legal and institutional findings of the study at a stakeholder meeting in Georgia.
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CENN experts were engaged by the ACTA Consultants Ltd. under the World Bank financed Georgian Protected Areas Development Project (GPADP) to identify alternatives and provide compensation for people affected by the establishment and expansion of protected areas – Vashlovani National Park, Lagodekhi National Park, Tusheti National Park, as well as the managed reserves of Batsara and Babaneuri within the GPADP. The process framework and abbreviated resettlement action plan (according to World Bank requirements) has been developed by the consultancy group. CENN did further expertise work - Environmental Assessment and Expertise of the projects implemented by the USAID-funded Georgia Employment and Infrastructure Initiative (GEII), implemented by CHF International. CENN carried out a Case Study in the City of Tbilisi on Building/Housing under a component of a paper prepared by UNEP and the European Agency for Environment Protection to be submitted to the conference “European Environment” to be held in Belgrade in October 2007. The document provides a cartographic structure of sustainable consumption and production in SEE and EECCA countries. The study focuses on the following issues: energy and water privatization, energy efficiency, control of toxic substances in construction materials, consumption of heat, electricity, water, the existence of metering and controlling systems for heating, electricity and water consumption, tariff structures and prices for heating, electricity and water. CENN experts were invited to participate in the Development of an Indicator Toolkit to Assess the Quality of Electricity Distribution Governance and Performance in Developing Country Cities carried out by the International Institute of Education with the support of USAID. Four developing courtiers have been participating in the project: Argentina, India, South Africa and Georgia. Experts from these countries have been working together to develop a set of indicators to assess open and equitable decision-making processes and system performance of electricity distribution services in developing country cities. CENN carried out a Stakeholders Analysis in the framework of the project “Elimination of Acute Risks of Obsolete Pesticides in Georgia” implemented by Milieukontakt Oost Europa (The Netherlands). The Stakeholders Analysis was focused on Kakheti Region. Its main objective was to identify key stakeholders whose participation is necessary for successful management and elimination of the risk of obsolete pesticides in the region. Another Stakeholders Analysis was conducted by CENN within the framework of the World Bank’s Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Project. The analysis focused on specific threats to ICZM and opportunities for improving cooperation, coordination, and decision-making between various stakeholders in the coastal zone. In 2006, CENN conducted an Environmental Study of the Samtskhe-Javakheti Region. The study was carried out within the parameters of the project “Sustainable Livelihoods in Adigeni and Adjacent Rayons“ (SLAAR), which was implemented by the Care International in the Caucasus with the support of DFID. The main purpose of the environmental study was to identify environmental indicators for all districts (Borjomi, Akhaltsikhe, Aspindza, Ninotsminda, Adigeni, Akhalkalaki) and to make recommendations to be included in the Strategic Plan for the Socio-economic Development of the Samtskhe-Javakheti Region.
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green your knowledge
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Resources management
Resources management
|| Integrated Resource Management Planning (IRMP) || Forestry || Water || Energy
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CENN is one of the leading organizations in the South Caucasus with vast experience and expertise in the field of natural resources management.
| Integrated Resource Management Planning (IRMP) | In 2006, CENN specialists were trained in the Integrated Resource Management Planning, which is community-based, participatory process aiming to improve the capacity of communities and other stakeholders to manage, sustainably utilize and protect the local natural resource base through preparation and implementation of IRMP. CENN was engaged with the communities within the framework of the project “Rural Energy Program” implemented by Winrock International Institute for Agricultural Development / USAID. The overall objective of the project is to create a sustainable energy system through diversified renewable energy supply and increased efficiency in the energy sector in Georgia. IRMP serves as a roadmap for the communities to mobilize their human and natural resources to define problems, consider previous successes, evaluate local institutional capacities, priorities opportunities and prepare a systematic and sitespecific plan of action for the community to adopt and implement.
| Forestry | CENN is involved in the sustainable management of forest resources. CENN organized and facilitated a regional seminar / workshop on Communities and Nature Resource Management – Establishment of Independent Forest Monitoring Network with the support of East East Program of the Open Society Georgia Foundation. The objective of the seminar was to bring together representatives of NGOs and the State sectors of the three South Caucasus countries to discuss forest related issues in the region, to exchange ideas as well as learn more about the state of the forests, problems concerning these issues in the individual countries and the region as a whole. In 2006, CENN with the financial support of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO UN) organized a Nationwide Consultation on National Forest Policy and Strategy (NEPS) Concept Document. CENN disseminated the first draft of the NFPS Concept Document among key stakeholders nationwide, organized a two day workshop to review the first draft and provide the “NFPS Core Groups” with recommendations to improve the document.
| Water | In 2006, CENN implemented the project Local Capacity and Regional Confidence Building and Networking for Promotion of Integrated Water Management in the South Caucasus Countries supported by the South Caucasus Program of the Eurasia Foundation / USAID. This regional project aimed at local capacity building in pilot areas: Bolnisi, Akhtala and Kazakh regions. The project included trainings, thematic seminars dedicated to water issues and a regional environmental awareness campaign. We also concentrated on regional confidence and partnership building through the initiation of regional cooperation. Public river biological monitoring activities were encouraged to create a sense of ownership over joint water resources.
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CENN also organized the Kura-Aras NGO Forum and facilitated the NGO Forum Inaugural Meeting - “Reducing Crossborder Degradation of the Kura-Aras River Basin through Public Involvement and Stakeholder Inclusion in Governance.� The event took place in Gudauri and was financially supported by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). The objective of the workshop was to inaugurate the NGO Forum, which would act as a platform for civil society to manage cross-border water issues. Amendments were presented and made to the NGO Forum Charter. The workshop also served as an opportunity for regional non-governmental organizations from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran and Georgia to discuss issues of mutual concern.
| Energy | CENN works at the grassroots level in the energy sector. The project, Development of Local Capacities and Public Awareness for Better Energy Governance (supported by USAID), sought to ease existing tensions in the Georgian electricity sector by educating and organizing consumers into the Energy Services Consumers Association (ESCA) and strengthening energy governance. CENN was successful in organizing and facilitation of multi-stakeholder meetings in the energy sector as well as providing regular information to the stakeholders and the public on energy sector governance in the country. Energy efficiency is fast becoming a CENN specialty. Apart from acclaimed energy efficiency school campaigns carried out with the support of the OSCE, CENN trainers have developed short course on energy efficiency and energy sector governance.
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step by step to a sustainable lifestyle
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Compliance management
Compliance management
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Organizations today face the challenge of complying with strengthened environmental legislation as well as international environmental and social requirements. CENN believes that sustainable solution is the key driver for business competitiveness in the 21st century. If businesses take a proactive approach, modern environmental management can stimulate innovation and enhance competitiveness. CENN has been providing advisory services and consultancy to different governmental structures, private companies and institutions.
To be efficient, CENN applies modern approaches and technolgies CENN was one of the first organizations create web databases in GIS system on nature resources and the environment of the South Caucasus. It started in 2000 with the support of the Swiss Agency for Cooperation and Development (SDC). CENN GIS specialists collected, consolidated and categorized environmental information relating to the region and develop easily accessible and flexible databases. The database cover water resources (mineral and surface waters – rivers, lakes, reservoirs glaciers), mineral resources (oil, gas, coal, non-ferrous metals, etc.), soils, agro climatic resources, protected areas, and flora and fauna. The graphic and alphanumeric database on water resources was created using ESRI’s ArcGIS 9.1 software. CENN expertise in GIS has been used by a number of local and international organizations in different projects and activities. Examples include the Investigation and Monitoring of Dams and Hydroelectric basins in Georgia by the Government of Italy, the Rural Energy Program implemented by WI International, Ramsar Compensation Study - Preparation of the compensation package for possible revision of the boundaries of the Central Kolkheti Ramsar site due to the construction of an oil terminal at the Khobistskali river estuary (Kulevi Terminal).
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Communication and environment
Communication and environment || Think naturally. Go green! || Step by step to a sustainable lifestyle || Greening offices
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| Think naturally. Go green! | In 2006, CENN actively engaged itself in working with the society and communicating sustainable lifestyle messages. To attract the public attention, we are proactively applying the modern and innovative activities regionwide. In November, CENN hosted the Caucasus Documentary Film Festival “Footprints” and Media Activism and Critical Thinking Seminar in Tbilisi. Over 50 movies from Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia were shown in two halls of Rustaveli Movie Theater. Movies were subdivided into three categories: Man versus Nature, Heroes of Our Time and Cultural Identity and Globalization. We had two main aims when this plan first arose: to support and promote young documentary makers in this region and to make a contribution to a better-informed audience in terms of the environment, culture and many inspiring and remarkable human beings in and from the South Caucasus. To assist young documentary makers from the South Caucasus we organized a one-day Media Activism and Critical Thinking Seminar the day before the festival kicked off. Read more on: www.footrpints.ge In June, CENN organized the Reclaim the Streets action and hosted a festival called “Footprints” with the slogan “Watch your steps, choose where you are going”. Young people gathered in Mziuri Park to exchange information and express their attitudes towards environmental issues. Tbilisi witnessed its first “Reclaim the Streets” - about 60 people cycled from Freedom Square to Republic Square, joined by another 50 people on foot. Rather astonished onlookers were given informational leaflets. Since November, CENN has been arranging monthly Green Café evenings in Tbilisi and Batumi where one can meet interesting people to discuss the most burning issues of our century and of our planet in the most informal and relaxed atmospheres. Up to now 6 Green Cafés were organized on the topics like global warming, biodiversity, media and environment, forestry, GMOs, etc. Anyone with an interest in “green” issues is welcome. In August, an Eco(logical) Action Camp was organized by CENN, CYEN members and Bakuriani Tourist Information Center. Over a six-day period, workshops were held during the day, while at night participants enjoyed themselves singing and joking around the campfire. Workshops ranged from “what is biodiversity” to “how to get what you want, lobby and campaigning strategies”. All workshops were aimed at empowering the ecological youth movement. The students cleaned the picnic area around the campsite and the park in the center of Bakuriani, later hosted an environmental movie night in a school in Bakuriani. Read more on: www.cyen.cenn.org
| Step by step to a sustainable lifestyle | Biodiversity conservation and its rational application should be the concern of every citizen. That it is not is an obvious failure to communicate the importance of bio-diversity to the general public. For CENN, this is an unacceptable situation and one which we actively work on to reverse.
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The project, “Environmental Communication Campaign – Conservation for Sustainable Development in the Caucasus Ecoregion” is one example of what we do in this regard. It is implemented with the financial support of the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF). The project aims at the popularization of endangered species, highlighting causes of biodiversity loss in Georgia and raising awareness generally. The following activities have been implemented within the framework of the project: A special biodiversity web page has been up and running. Its main aim is to involve all kinds of media in the biodiversity conservation issue. Links are provided so that journalists can have updated information about the project, its activities and biodiversity issues in general. Among many other links there is one dedicated to “the species of the month”. This particular link is concerned with public awareness of and fundraising for individual endangered species. You can find more on http://bio.cenn.org Donation box has been installed in the new international airport in Tbilisi. The money will go towards the conservation of the Imperial Eagle (Aquila Heliaca) in the Caucasus. A photo exhibition – “Georgia- Hotspot of Biodiversity” was arranged in the Children’s Educational Center Hall in Tbilisi zoo. The photos of eight Georgian wildlife photographers were displayed to present endemic and endangered species found in Georgia. Government officials and members of local, regional and international NGOs, journalists and the wider public were present at the opening ceremony. The photos are on sale and money will go towards the protection of specific endangered species in Georgia. | Different promotional materials were prepared and distributed – a biodiversity calendar, mugs and stickers with the project logo and slogan “Think naturally”. Many more interesting activities are still in the pipeline – Biodiversity campaigns, PSAs, a movie on Georgian biodiversity, seminars in the regions, etc.
| Greening offices | Every day at CENN, we receive calls asking us how to go about greening the office. In response, we have designed a special portfolio of services. It is aimed at those who wish to put a green office policy into practice and protect the environment, but may not have the time or the money to immediately overhaul the workplace. Our greening office team visits offices to offer recommendations on how to transform the workplace into a more environmentally friendly place. They ensure cost efficiencies by providing a systematic and holistic framework.
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Financials
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Balance sheets
December 31, 2006 ASSETS
December 31, 2005
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$138,956.18
$68,902.81
$0.00
$0.00
$16,980.33
$12,192.13
$989.89
$780.34
$156,926.40
$81,875.28
$65,602.25
$81,244.38
$0.00
$0.00
$65,602.25
$81,244.38
$222,528.65
$163,119.66
Claims to personnel Claims to the state budget Claims to suppliers Total current assets
Fixed Assets: Furniture and equipment Other assets Total fixed assets Total assets
December 31, 2006 LIABILITIES Current Liabilities:
December 31, 2005
Liabilities to personnel
$19,771.90
$2,724.72
Liabilities to the state budget
$13,153.93
$8,444.94
Short term liabilities
$39,024.16
$12,750.56
Total current liabilities
$71,949.99
$23,920.22
Equity capital: Authorized capital stock
$1,374.72
$119.10
$149,203.94
$139,080.34
Total equity capital
$150,578.66
$139,199.44
Total liabilities and equity capital
$222,528.65
$163,119.66
Other reserves and targeted financing
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Statement of activities
2006
REVENUE Grants
$412,576.00 $1,707.00
Other revenue Total revenue
$414,283.00
ENPENSES Salaries, honorariums
$179,439.00
Communication expenses
$14,091.00
Meetings, workshops, public outreach activities, etc.
$76,750.00
Travel expenses
$24,892.00
Contractual
$10,241.00
Publications and printing
$22,211.00
Supporting expenses (management and general) Purchasing of main assets + Total expenses
$70,388.00 $3,434.00 $401,446.00
Programs
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CENN Community 31 | Previous
CENN core team Nana Janashia | Executive Director nana.janashia@cenn.org Kakha Bakhtadze | GIS specialist , Programs Manager kakha.bakhtadze@cenn.org Tamar Pataridze | Project Developer tamar.pataridze@cenn.org Nino Tevzadze | Sociologist nino.tevzadze@cenn.org Nino Lagidze | Biologist , Biodiversity program coordinator nino.lagidze@cenn.org Irakli Kobulia | Geographer , IRMP specialist irakli.kobulia@cenn.org Mariam Tevzadze | Biologist , Information officer mariam.tevzadze@cenn.org Lia Ksovreli | Financial Manager lia.ksovreli@cenn.org Levan Natsvlishvili | IT Specialist levan.natsvlishvili@cenn.org Vakhtang Jikia | Office Manager vakhtang.jikia@cenn.org
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CENN partners NGOs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjarian Youth Environmental Network (AYEN) Association for Protection of Landowners Rights – APLR Bakuriani Tourist Information Center (TIC) Biological Farming Association “ELKANA” BCG Research Black Sea Eco-Academy Caucasus Youth Environmental Network (CYEN) Energy Services Consumers Association (ESCA) Georgian Young Lawyers Association - GYLA GIS-Lab Green Alternative Green Wave Liberty Institute Qvemo Kartli Public Information Center (PIC) SPAMGO Training Center Samtskhe-Javakheti Public Information Center (PIC) WWF Caucasus Programme Office
Business . . . . .
Geocell Goodwill TAV Georgia Telasi United Energy Distribution Company - UEDC
Governmental agencies . . . .
Georgian National Energy Regulatory Commission - GNERC Ministry of Environment Protection and Natural Resources Tbilisi Municipality Tbilisi Water
Armenia . . . .
Armenia Tree Project American University of Armenia, Environmental Conservation Research Center, Birds of Armenia Project Environment Public Advocacy Center - EPAC Environmental Survival Union – ESU
Azerbaijan . . . .
Eco-sphere Informational Analytical Agency Sanya Ornithological Society of Azerbaijan Ruzgar
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International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ACTA Consultants Ltd. (Switzerland) Adelphi Research gGmbH (Germany) British Council (UK) Care International in the Caucasus (USA) CHF International (USA) Environmental Resources Management - ERM (UK) Institute of International Education (IIE) (USA) MDF - Training & Consultancy Milieukontakt Oost Europa (The Netherlands) Obf (Austria) Save the Children (USA) The Netherlands Commission for EIA (The Netherlands) UNEP/GRID-Arendal Winrock International Institute for Agricultural Development (USA) World Learning (USA)
CENN donors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bank-Netherlands Partnership Program (BNPP) Conservation International Foundation Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) East East Program of the Open Society - Georgia Foundation (OSGF) Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Tbilisi Eurasia Foundation German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) Institute for International Cooperation of the German Adult Education Association (IIZ DVV) InWent - Internationale Weiterbildung und Entwicklung Jan Vrijman Fund Kleine Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment of the Netherlands (VROM) NUFFIC - Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in Higher Education Open Society - Georgia Foundation (OSGF) Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) OSCE Mission in Georgia Solidarity Fund for Youth Mobility Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) The Ministry of Productive Activities of Italy The Municipal Development Fund of Georgia (MDFG) UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) UNDP/GEF United States Agency for International Development - USAID World Bank
.
Thanks to all these individuals who support CENN in its activities
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CENN - Georgia Head OďŹƒce 27, Betlemi Str. 0105, Tbilisi t +995 32 75 19 03/04 f +995 32 75 19 05 info@cenn.org
CENN - Armenia
CENN - Azerbaijan
31, Komitasi Str. 0012, Yerevan t/f +374 10 26 25 94 info.armenia@cenn.org
66, Heydar Aliyev Ave. 1154, Baku t/f +994 12 56 66 248 info.azerbaijan@cenn.org
CENN / Caucasus Environmental NGO Network / 2006