Akhalkalaki is a town located in the southern part of Georgia, in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, near the borders with Turkey and Armenia. The municipality has a significant Armenian minority. Unfortunately, poor waste management in the Akhalkalaki region has led to frequent illegal dumping sites and environmental pollution. Journalists and activists from the organization "Open Borders" have decided to address this issue.

The "Start of a Waste Management Strategy" campaign aims to establish an effective waste management system in four villages (Khando, Buzavet, Bugashen, Abul). The goal is to ensure regular waste collection and cleanup, eliminate illegal dumping sites, and secure the inclusion of waste management expenses in the 2025 budget by May 2025. Due to the efforts of local activists, at least part of the national-level waste management strategy will be implemented in Akhalkalaki.

HOW WE HELPED
We worked closely with the members of "Open Borders" to plan the steps and phases of the campaign in detail. The organization received micro-grant funding. The plan includes informational meetings with local authorities and key partners. Cooperation will be established with the local service center and business entities to implement this strategy. Training sessions will also be held for local youth, who will actively participate in advocacy activities and public awareness campaigns.