Moldovan Network of Rural Volunteering Centers for Water - Republic of Moldova

Discussion about ecological education is ramping up in Moldova, but there is a lack of a model. A village square being improved in Vorniceni, with the participation of international experts, could become such a model. It may become a best practice for local public administration, because it is for the first time in the history of the village when every single villager will have the opportunity to get involved in a single project.

Fast facts:

This activity will encourage 5,000 villagers in Vorniceni - especially women and girls - to participate, particularly those working abroad that might be able to contribute financially.

The problem

On December 14, 2012, the Vorniceni Village Council, Republic of Moldova, approved a decision to create a village square or public space. The land was planted with trees 40 years ago but has not received maintenance, which is reflected by its neglected state. There is also a lack of work places for youth and a lack of green spaces.

The solution

This activity will improve the village square in Vorniceni with the aim of creating a beautiful place to work or rest for their citizens. First, this activity will complete an ecological inspection. This involves cutting down old and damaged trees and planting new ones. To complete the square, this activity requires both financial and human resources. They want to involve people from the village in the project and will retain transparency throughout the whole process by posting YouTube videos every step of the way. The activity will build roads, fences, integrate functional architectural forms and plant flowerbeds.

Helping the planet

The capacity of Moldova’s forests to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is about 2,230,000 tonnes per year. Forests substantially contribute to reducing soil erosion and landslides. Through the creation of this village square and the subsequent planting of new trees, the village of Vorniceni has the opportunity to educate its citizens about Moldova’s unique environment.

Helping people

This creation of the village square is an opportunity for more than 5,000 inhabitants of the village to participate in the project implementation. The village high school is located near the square, making it possible to have outdoor lessons in the square.

Scaling Up

This activity is holding international conferences with Romanian and Ukrainian partners to promote similar activities. The global idea is to create an example of a village square to encourage other villages to promote and create sustainable green spaces.