LocationsEcological trails help preserve biodiversity, promote environmental education, and combat climate change.
Walking Green: Ecological Trails for a Greener Tomorrow
August 5, 2024
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
Ecotourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the tourism industry. Today, more than 35% of all travelers are choosing environmentally friendly vacations. Experts estimate that in 2023 the global ecotourism market size was worth US$ 250.56 billion. It is expected to reach US$ 614.58 billion by 2029.
Ecotourism and protected natural areas.
Protected natural areas are home to unique ecosystems that attract tourists eager to observe rare plant and animal species in their natural habitats. This makes reserves ideal for developing ecotourism.
For 16 years, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Belarus, in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the Republic of Belarus (the Ministry of Environment), has been providing comprehensive support for the development of tourism infrastructure in the countries’ nature reserves. These areas make over 9% of Belarus.
Since 2008, with the support of the European Union and the Global Environment Facility, UNDP has helped design and build 20 eco-trails totaling about 100 km.
“Viewing ecotourism as a one-dimensional process misses its true essence. It's a rich, interconnected system that not only conserves natural resources and biodiversity but also drives scientific research and inspires innovative, nature-focused solutions," said Olga Chabrovskaya, Programme Analyst (Environmental Unit) in UNDP in Belarus. "The impact of ecotourism sites on nurturing ecological awareness and consciousness is profound. They pave the way for a new generation to develop a more respectful and responsible attitude towards our environment."
Ecological trails are more than just scenic routes.
Eco-trails wind through picturesque landscapes featuring unique natural elements while fulfilling several essential roles.
Ecological trail (eco-trail) – is a special route through a natural area designed for environmental an educational purpose while minimizing disturbance to the surrounding wildlife habitats.
Ecological trails offer hands-on learning experiences that traditional classrooms can’t provide. By engaging with the environment directly, children can grasp complex concepts and strengthen their knowledge in biology, chemistry, and geography. The eco-trail “Treasures of Zvanets Bog” in the Zvanets Nature Reserve in Brest region.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
Eco-trails offer a site for green education and environmental research.
Designed with wildlife protection and ecosystem conservation in mind, the trails offer ideal venues for educational excursions, student field trips, ecological activities, and "green" quests for people of all ages.
Gaining knowledge in botany, zoology, climatology, geography, and geology fosters a deeper understanding of nature's intricate processes and cultivates a sense of responsible environmental stewardship.
Every spring and autumn, the eco-trail “In the Land of the Aquatic Warbler” in the heart of the Sporauski Nature Reserve becomes a hub of activity. Here, ornithologists from the "Yaselda" bird ringing station dedicate themselves to studying and tracking migratory bird populations. Nestled in Belarus' Brest region, this vital research site contributes significantly to global conservation efforts.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
Furthermore, ecological trails provide researchers with unobtrusive access to the very heart of natural ecosystems, enabling them to monitor conditions and experiment with sustainable nature management techniques. Findings from this research are used to design nature conservation strategies and develop practical recommendations for ecosystem preservation.
The renewed “Syabrynskiy Crossroads” eco-trail in the Naliboksky Nature Reserve in Minsk region not only offers visitors a breathtaking nature experience but also helps maintain the delicate balance of the local ecosystem.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
Eco-trails safely guide tourists through natural areas, minimizing the environmental impact that travelers can cause. By channeling tourist flows along specially designed routes, eco-trails safeguard natural ecosystems. This prevents soil disruption and trampling of plants.
Eco-trails help explore nature’s resilience in the face of climate change.
Many trails meander through ecosystems that are particularly vulnerable to climate change. In Belarus, these include lowland and upland bogs, floodplain meadows, and oak forests. As a result, eco-trails become "natural laboratories" for studying the impacts of climate change on soil, plant and animal life. These studies offer invaluable insights into the changes brought about by global warming and help scientists develop strategies to mitigate its effects.
Many trails traverse ecosystems that are susceptible to climate change. The eco-trail “In the Land of the Aquatic Warbler” in the Sporovsky Nature Reserve winds through the floodplain of the Yaselda River, whose water level depends on climate conditions.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
Eco-trails contribute to fighting climate change.
Careful management of tourist traffic in natural areas can help preserve their pristine condition and enhance their ability to absorb carbon dioxide, a crucial function in combating climate change.
Walking and cycling along these routes are low-carbon forms of tourism. Electric bicycles can be rented on the “Syabrynskiy Crossroads” eco-trail in the Naliboksky Nature Reserve, Minsk region.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
UNDP continues to support the development of eco-trails in Belarus’ nature reserves.
As the trend of ecotourism grows, there will be a high demand for infrastructure from tourists with diverse ages and physical abilities.
In partnership with the Ministry of Environment, along with local authorities and community groups, UNDP is expanding ecotourism facilities within the country's nature reserves.
The Naliboksky Nature Reserve, Minsk region.
The “Syabrynskiy Crossroads” eco-trail, spanning 960 meters, underwent renovations and was officially opened in June of this year.
Modernized eco-trail “Syabrynskiy Crossroads” in the Naliboksky Nature Reserve, Minsk region.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
A wooden walkway with railings was installed on the trail to make it easier for tourists with children, the elderly or people with disabilities to pass through. New information boards with QR codes will help visitors learn more about local wildlife.
On the trail, visitors can encounter deer and roe deer, spot tracks of wolves, lynx, and bears, and in spring, observe rare birds of prey - white-tailed eagles.
Midway along the trail, travelers come across an observation tower. From this vantage point, they can watch Tarpan horses, bison, and elk in their natural habitat.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
In 2024, two more reserves in Belarus will have new eco-trails.
The Ozery Nature Reserve, Hrodna region.
In Hrodna region, visitors of the Ozery Nature Reserve can venture deep into the wild forest on the renovated narrow-gauge railway. The train makes stops at locations where tourists will learn about the history and the geography of the reserve’s unique landscapes, about the diversity of its plants and wildlife.
The Ozery Nature Reserve boasts Belarus's only eco-trail accessible by narrow-gauge railway. This unique route transports visitors to some of the reserve's most remote and pristine areas.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
To reinforce the guides' information, interactive boards, installed along the trail, will be used, offering tourists engaging tasks like identifying local plants and birds. The entire route stretches for 10 kilometers, providing ample opportunity for hands-on learning and exploration.
The Osvejsky Nature Reserve, Vitebsk region.
While visiting the reserve, tourists can embark on a tour to the Du Island, Belarus’ largest now uninhabited isle. Soon, a 4.5- kilometer eco-trail will unveil to them a remarkable testament to nature's resilience.
In the heart of the Osveisky Nature Reserve lies Du Island, where a new eco-trail will be opened soon, thanks to the support from UNDP.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
As visitors walk along the trail, they will witness wild plants flourishing alongside remnants of agricultural crops, serving as poignant reminders of the island's past inhabitants. This juxtaposition of thriving nature and the traces of former human activity tells a compelling story of the island's history and the enduring power of the natural world.
One can reach the eco-trail by guided water transport.
Photo: UNDP in Belarus
Creating and improving eco-trails in protected natural areas isn't just about enhancing tourist comfort; it's an effective strategy for tackling complex environmental challenges. These trails help foster ecological awareness among travelers, advance scientific research, preserve biodiversity and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
By stepping onto these carefully crafted paths, people are not only embarking on outdoor adventure but also contributing to a green and sustainable future.
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