ArmInfo. In 2026, the total funding for 25 activities included within the six budget programs of the Ministry of Environment will be approximately 15.4 billion drams. This amount is 813 million drams more than the budget approved in 2025. Of the planned amount for 2026, approximately 2.4 billion drams are from international grants, and approximately 13 billion drams are allocations from the state budget, as stated by the Minister of Environment of the Republic of Armenia, Hambardzum Matevosyan, during a meeting in the National Assembly.
The Minister touched upon the organizational activities and funding for the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity, which will be held in Yerevan in October 2026. The Ministry will be allocated 1 billion drams for these purposes, with the rest coming from the government's reserve fund. The total allocation for the "Forest Management" program is over 7 billion drams. With the adoption of the Law "On Eco-Patrol Service," the protection of forests and specially protected natural areas will be carried out by an eco-patrol service. According to the draft state budget for 2026, 5.7 billion drams will be allocated for the eco-patrol service. As part of the system's implementation, work continues to replenish and re-equip eco-patrol personnel through investment programs and with the support of international partners.
Additionally, 475.5 million drams will be allocated for the maintenance of the HayAntar State Non-Profit Organization, with 42.5% for employee salaries. The bulk of the organization's operating expenses will be covered by its own income from entrepreneurial activities.
The funding for reforestation and afforestation has been reduced by 50%, totaling 500 million drams. Approximately 391 million drams are earmarked for pest control in forests and 686 million drams in environmental subsidies have been allocated to 17 affected communities.
The Minister also presented several ongoing environmental programs and outlined activities planned for 2026. Work will be carried out to clean the Voghji Riverbed in the city of Kapan. A rainwater harvesting and irrigation system program will be implemented in the Nor Nork district of Yerevan.
Also, 1.11 billion drams will be allocated for the "Management of Natural Resources and Specially Protected Areas" program. 624.5 million drams will be allocated for the maintenance of six state non-profit organizations managing specially protected areas. 467.7 million drams have been allocated for the restoration of the Sevan Trout Resources and Fish Farming Development Fund, which is approximately 28 million drams, or 6%, less than the 2025 figure.
