UNDP is actively engaged across Georgia, working with local communities to tackle pressing environmental challenges while building partnerships with public institutions, municipalities, civil society, and the private sector to advance climate action at the grassroots level.

Central to these efforts is the partnership between UNDP and the Global Environment Facility’s Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP), driving various local community projects aimed at addressing biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation, and promoting renewable energy, energy efficiency, and environment-friendly entrepreneurship. These initiatives not only yield environmental benefits but also contribute to poverty reduction and gender equality, benefiting thousands of people in all regions of Georgia.

Since its inception in Georgia in 2012, the UNDP-led GEF Small Grants Programme has supported over 90 local initiatives, totalling more than US$2 million. In its current phase covering 2019-2024, the programme directs US$750,000 towards initiatives spanning various regions, including the Greater and Lesser Caucasus Mountains, the Black Sea coast, and semi-arid areas of the country.

Energy-Efficient Technologies in Dusheti Municipality

One such site is Dusheti Municipality, where UNDP-led GEF SGP, in partnership with the Biomass Association of Georgia, the Rural Development Agency, and Dusheti Municipality, is promoting the community's use of energy-efficient technologies. The partnership focuses on distributing locally produced solid biomass stoves to communities facing energy challenges, particularly those in the highlands lacking access to natural gas. 

Overall, up to 40 households will benefit from this aid which offers a clean, efficient, and cost-effective heating alternative and enhances indoor air quality and thermal comfort for residents.

A key element of the project is the introduction of an ‘Energy Bus’, a mobile education unit visiting up to 50 communities, raising awareness about renewable energy, demonstrating its benefits, and guiding on sustainable energy practices. Initially focused on Dusheti Municipality, this educational campaign now extends to other targeted communities in the Ajara Autonomous Republic and the Racha-Lechkhumi, Samegrelo, Samtskhe-Javakheti, Meskheti, Mtianeti, and Zemo Svaneti regions.

Tangible outcomes of the project were showcased during an official visit to Chanadirtkari village by representatives of the Government, local authorities, and UNDP. The delegation included Otar Shamugia, Minister of the Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia; Anna Chernyshova, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Georgia; Davit Nozadze, State Representative of Mtskheta-Mtianeti Region; and Matsatso Narimanidze, Dusheti Mayor.