As a young diasporan Armenian, the future of Armenia has always been of great importance to me. From a young age, it was instilled in me the importance of protecting my homeland and my people from any harm. Seeing the smog in Yerevan and the growing deforestation, visiting Armenia every time was truly devastating. In order to save our beloved homeland from the effects of environmental issues, I believe that the young generation of Armenians needs to step up and raise their voices to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly measures.
Some of the key issues that are currently affecting Armenia’s environment are air pollution and deforestation. During my latest visit to Armenia, I noticed that the air in Yerevan was a gray color, implying that it is heavily polluted. Now knowing the effects that air pollution has on the environment and the people living in it, I am extremely worried for the city. The effects of air pollution on the human body are an increased risk of lung infections and heart disease1. Additionally, inhaling poor-quality air also leads to an increase in miscarriages and stillbirths1. It breaks my heart to hear that the citizens of Armenia are suffering from the consequences of air pollution because that means they will soon be affected by the health risks that come with air pollution. The young generation can make a difference by spreading the message of the risks of air pollution on social media, so that we can build different organizations dedicated to fixing this issue.
When I visited the villages of Armenia, I noticed that the forests looked a bit sparse. Later, I realized that deforestation was the main cause of this issue. The forests of Armenia are a major cultural icon. Armenia is known for its beautiful, lush forests where biodiversity thrives2. In school, I learned about the importance of the Tavush region, which is primarily known for its forests. It is depressing to learn that the once green and healthy forest we learned about in school now is experiencing the aftermath of deforestation.
In order to have a true impact on eco activism, people need to leave their unhealthy habits and promote sustainable practices. I try to promote environmental activism within my own school by joining clubs such as the sustainability club. Through Model UN, I am able to join in educated debates about environmental issues going on around the world. Additionally, being able to write articles for Maqoor has opened up my viewpoint on environmental issues and how to combat them. Through social media, people are able to spread the word about certain clubs and organizations that are ready to make a change. Learning about the issues that are currently destroying the environment of Armenia has given me a new sense of love for the country, as I want to help save the environment to safeguard the future of the future generations living in Armenia.
Sources
1 – Who.int; 2024; https://www.who.int/news/item/25-06-2024-what-are-health-consequences-of-air-pollution-on-populations
2 – Airclim.org; no defined date of publication; https://www.airclim.org/projects/northern-forests-and-climate-change/importance-and-role-forests-armenia
[Julia Hamalian, September 9, 2025]
