“Taking on this burden, we believe that sooner or later we will achieve change at the level of law and strategy,” says Arsen Arsenyan, coordinator of the Healthy Hrazdan initiative. The initiative focuses on protecting the Marmarik River, one of the key waterways in the region and an important source of irrigation and livelihood for nearby communities. Over the past years, pollution of the river has become increasingly visible, affecting ecosystems, agriculture, and the quality of life of residents living along its banks. Healthy Hrazdan begins its work with thorough research. The initiative studies the condition of the Marmarik River point by point, mapping five communities located along the riverbanks as well as hotels, guesthouses, and mining facilities operating in the area. Meetings are held with local administrators, activists, and residents to understand both the environmental impact and the social context of the problem. The campaign is launched in 2025 within the framework of the Participatory Path of Change in the Regions of Armenia program, its main goal is clear: to protect the Marmarik River from pollution and ensure that major polluters—hotels, guesthouses, and mining operators—install proper wastewater treatment facilities. According to Arsenyan, one of the most important achievements so far is that the issue is openly discussed at the community level. “The problem has been raised in the community. Both residents and representatives of local self-government are interested in finding a solution, which is already a big success,” he explains. At the same time, the initiative emphasizes the importance of legal awareness. Many residents are unaware of their rights or the mechanisms available to protect their environment. “It is crucial that people living near the river increase their legal awareness, so they can fight for their communities and voice their concerns,” Arsenyan adds. One of the challenges the group identifies is the lack of clear regulations on river pollution. This creates a situation where responsibility is fragmented. “When we talk to hotel managers, they say they are ready to install treatment facilities, but they ask why others are not required to do the same,” Arsenyan explains. He also points out that Marmarik is not the only polluted river in Armenia—similar problems affect the Hrazdan, Voghji, and Gavaraget rivers. Research confirms the severity of the situation: community sewage flows directly into the river, sewer systems are either missing or in very poor condition, and household waste is often dumped along the riverbanks. Some progress has been made—trash bins have been installed—but these measures alone are not sufficient.  To address the problem systematically, Healthy Hrazdan is now developing a policy document for the protection of the Marmarik River. The aim is to move beyond isolated local actions and push for structural, long-term solutions. A working group will soon be formed to draft the document and present it to the community council. The impact of pollution goes far beyond environmental degradation. River water is used to irrigate gardens, yet fish have disappeared, and children are no longer allowed to swim in the river due to high pollution levels. Since the Marmarik flows into the Hrazdan River and eventually reaches the Ararat Valley, the consequences affect a much larger area. Healthy Hrazdan sees its work as only the beginning. After Marmarik, the same approach could be applied to the Hrazdan River. “With small steps, we can achieve big changes,” Arsenyan says. The story of Arsen Arsenyan and his team shows that organized civic action can do more than challenge harmful practices—it can become a driver of policy change and a force for long-term environmental justice.