On October 18, 2025, employees of the Russian Agricultural Bank planted 8,000 pine seedlings on Lake Aslykul in Bashkortostan.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Ecology Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

8,000 pine saplings were planted by employees of the Russian Agricultural Bank on Lake Aslykul in Bashkortostan.

A large-scale tree planting event was held in the Aslykul Natural Park, organized by the Ecology Foundation together with the local forestry department. About 60 employees and family members of the Bashkir branch of the agricultural bank took part in it. Volunteers planted about 8 thousand pine seedlings on four hectares of the lake’s coastal area. This is the first stage of the campaign – a total of 15,200 coniferous trees will be planted here. “Today we are making a contribution to the preservation of the largest lake in the Republic of Bashkortostan,” said Elmira Morozova, director of the Ecology Foundation, before planting. –  The Aslykul Nature Park is unique: 10 species of animals live on its territory and 40 species of plants listed in the Red Book grow. In recent years, the lake has been rapidly shallowing, and biodiversity in the natural park is declining. New forest plantations will help restore biological and landscape diversity and will play an important role in the fight against desertification of adjacent areas and drying out of the lake.” Forest restoration is carried out by the Ecology Foundation with funds from the sale of certificates in the retail network of the Russian Agricultural Bank. The Bashkir branch of the bank has been among the leaders in the sale of certificates among the regions for several years now. “We are saving one of the most beautiful and famous lakes in the republic not only with our work as volunteers, but also with financial support for this project,” noted branch director Alexey Samsonov. – Since the beginning of 2025, our branch has sold about 1,000 environmental certificates through its sales points. This impressive figure helped the foundation purchase a large number of seedlings. Thanks to everyone who contributed to the restoration of the lake – our sales managers, residents of the republic who bought certificates, and bank employees who readily decided to spend their day off with a shovel in their hands.”  Despite the gloomy weather, the volunteers worked with great enthusiasm, and children actively helped parents. The participants of the action were so inspired by the incredible beauty of the lake and the noble mission to save it that they planted more than half of the planting material at once – although the organizers of the action did not set such a goal for them. Not even the icy wind could stop warm hearts from doing a good deed.  And the rich shurpa, pilaf and tea with sweets after hard work seemed especially tasty. “Both I and my children are in a great mood,” shared a participant in the action, deputy director and head of the department for working with clients of large businesses, Elvira Kucherbaeva. “The daughter and son felt truly needed, doing an important job. In addition, working together for the benefit of nature is a great opportunity to spend time together in an interesting and useful way. We will be happy to come here with the whole family in the spring – now this place will become special for us.”

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

On October 8, 2025, a hectare of forest was restored in the Buzuluk Forest National Park with the help of MTS and the Zapovednoye Posledstvo (Protected Nature) Foundation.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Preserved Embassy Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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On October 17, 2025, the Zapovednoye Posledstvo Foundation and the Zapovedniki Ecocenter, along with Rosatom and SIBUR, presented Russian conservation practices at the IUCN World Congress on International Cooperation.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Preserved Embassy Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The Nature Embassy Foundation and the Zapovedniki Ecocenter, together with Rosatom and SIBUR, presented best practices and research in biodiversity conservation at the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) World Conservation Congress. Rosatom and the Nature Embassy also announced the creation of an international platform for publishing best practices and research in biodiversity conservation businesses.

The Congress is held every four years, and this year it was held in Abu Dhabi from October 9 to 15, 2025. The Congress website is: iucncongress2025.org/

Russian non-profit organizations—the Zapovedniki Ecocenter and the Zapovednoye Posledstvo Charitable Educational Foundation—as well as representatives of the Rosatom and SIBUR businesses, held business and public events at the Congress aimed at promoting advanced Russian practices in biodiversity conservation and environmental education.

The event "Partnerships for Conservation" was organized by representatives of the Nature Conservation Embassy Foundation and the Zapovedniki Ecocenter, together with Rosatom, Sibur, and Kept. Attendees of the session, held in the Education Center pavilion of the IUCN Commission on Communications and Education, heard examples of effective partnerships aimed at conservation and sustainable development.

The session was opened by Natalia Danilina, President of the Nature Conservation Embassy Foundation and Director of the Zapovedniki Ecocenter. She emphasized the importance of cooperation between protected areas, businesses, and expert NGOs. "We are implementing projects with Norilsk Nickel, JTI, SIBUR, MTS, and others, and our new partner is Rosatom. These are innovative, educational, scientific, and practical projects supporting biodiversity, environmental education, and volunteer development. We believe that the formula for effective cooperation for nature conservation is a three-pronged partnership: protected areas, which are directly responsible for nature conservation, and businesses and nonprofit organizations, which organize joint project development and jointly find innovative solutions to address conservation issues as effectively as possible," noted Natalia Danilina.

Svetlana Sheinfeld, Director of the Operational Risk and Sustainability Group at the audit and consulting firm Kept, who participated in the event, noted that there is a growing demand for environmental partnerships. Proactive businesses are transforming their approaches, which is confirmed by the data. Seventy percent of respondents to the Kept study cite the critical importance of cooperation with protected areas. However, achieving a synergistic effect requires a rigorous expert approach based on relevant metrics.

Olga Shkabardnya, CEO of ANO Energy of Development and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility and Internal Communications at Rosatom State Corporation, explained that projects aimed at preserving biodiversity and implementing environmental standards in tourism development in natural areas are currently relevant to the company. "We understand that only by working with non-profit organizations can we preserve the diversity and natural environment of these areas. Our corporate volunteers, our youth, and our student community leaders, who have been organizing environmental education events for many years with the support of experts, also play a huge role in this process," noted Olga Shkabardnya. She emphasized that one of Rosatom's key activities is promoting biodiversity conservation through special projects. For example, Rosatom holds a photo contest showcasing the nature of nuclear cities and has also established a special category within the Golden Turtle awards.

Raisa Momot, Head of Sustainable Development at SIBUR, supported the theme of environmental education through partnership and local community engagement. She noted in her speech: "The topic of sustainable development is quite broad. And in order to engage more residents of the regions where we operate and other stakeholders, we need to create diverse communities and specialized spaces. The agenda of preserving ecosystems and biodiversity will not leave anyone indifferent. Everyone will find something for themselves in it – some enjoy planting trees, others clean and improve the area, and still others simply enjoy strolling along an eco-trail," noted Raisa Momot.

The expert spoke about SIBUR's environmental education projects aimed at educating children and adolescents. Specifically, the "Living Symbols of the Taiga" project allows children to study wildlife and complete projects at a summer camp. And the "Lapwing Territory" project offers opportunities for residents of the project's regions to participate in sport ornithology (birdwatching).

Raisa Momot also shared information about SIBUR's important environmental education initiative, the creation of eco-trails. "Our eco-trails are designed to bring people and nature closer together, no matter where they are—even within an industrial cluster. In Tobolsk, where our flagship plant is located, the eco-trail is located in a natural area near the facility. It allows residents of the region to stroll and explore the animal and plant species that inhabit and grow there. The trail features relict taiga and mixed forests with unique bio-indicator plants, clearly demonstrating that wildlife can coexist in close proximity to industrial production without negative consequences. Another eco-trail is located in the Amur Region. With SIBUR's support, a unique city arboretum, which had fallen into disrepair, was restored. It is a veritable museum of the nature of the Far East. "The third, in the Republic of Tatarstan, is located in an industrial cluster, creating a green space there and demonstrating that industrial enterprises and the natural environment can safely coexist side by side," noted Raisa Momot.

Another event held as part of the Congress by experts from the Zapovedniki Ecocenter and the Zapovedniki Embassy Foundation was the "In the Language of Nature Reserves" session. This interactive educational program explored the importance of protecting wildlife and protected areas worldwide. The session draws on the Zapovedniki Ecocenter's 30 years of experience in environmental education, training nature reserve staff, and creating innovations in interpreting nature conservation through interactive formats—games, lessons, and engaging activities. Furthermore, experts from the Zapovedniki Embassy Foundation conducted nature reserve game sessions, which generated great enthusiasm. By playing scientific games developed by the foundation's experts and dedicated to biodiversity conservation, Congress participants were able to tap into environmental education and delve deeper into nature conservation through interactive games. "Game-based practices allow us to present complex scientific data in an accessible manner, thus gaining new allies in the cause of nature conservation. "These kinds of mechanisms are important for education specialists, teachers, volunteers, and employees of protected areas," noted Yulia Vereshchak, Director of International Projects at the Reserve Embassy Foundation.

At a press conference titled "New Scientific Research on Business and Innovation in Biodiversity Conservation and Their Impact on International Cooperation," organized by the Nature Conservation Embassy Foundation at the Congress Media Center, the organization announced the results of a big-data study on public attitudes toward protected areas. Rosatom announced the launch of a biodiversity study in areas where nuclear industry organizations operate in at least 32 Russian cities, and potentially abroad.

Olga Shkabardnya, CEO of ANO Energy of Development and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility and Internal Communications at Rosatom State Corporation, also discussed Rosatom's new joint project with the Nature Conservation Embassy Foundation—an online platform that aggregates best practices and research on biodiversity conservation. "Together with the Nature Conservation Embassy Foundation, we initiated the creation of a unified international platform where, in addition to best corporate practices and research in biodiversity conservation from around the world, we will also showcase key biodiversity-related events, opportunities for sharing best practices, and opportunities for contacts between scientists, young people, and entrepreneurs. The platform is intended to become a space for communication and information exchange between science, NGOs, government, and business to most effectively address biodiversity conservation challenges and replicate best practices." The speaker emphasized that the demand for the popularization of effective solutions in the field of biodiversity conservation on a single resource was voiced at the Congress.

Yulia Vereshchak, Director of International Projects at the Nature Embassy Foundation, shared information about a large-scale study conducted by the Foundation in collaboration with Tomsk State University and the Cyberia Lab. "Using lingua markers, we trained a program that helped analyze local population attitudes toward protected areas across all federal districts of Russia, including national parks, nature reserves, inspectors, science departments, and volunteer organizations. Our big data study covered over 3.5 million data points over a year. The goal of the study was to understand local population attitudes toward protected areas. Do Russians know what activities are conducted in protected areas, what biodiversity is, have they ever seen an inspector, have they participated in environmental festivals, are they willing to volunteer, and do they understand that it's possible to visit a protected area as a tourist while adhering to ecotourism standards? We intend to dedicate the second part of the study to transboundary territories. We are confident that the results of this study will help to more effectively manage protected areas and develop international cooperation in the field of biodiversity conservation."

REFERENCE:

The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) World Conservation Congress is held every four years and sets development priorities and cooperation formats for nature conservation and biodiversity preservation for years to come. The Congress is the largest platform for exchanging experiences in environmental protection and sustainable development. In 2025, the IUCN Congress welcomed over 1,400 IUCN member organizations from 160 countries and was attended by 10,000 participants. Scientists, experts, representatives of businesses, NGOs, and natural areas from around the world shared experiences, innovations, and work results at several hundred events.

Russia is an active member of IUCN. The Zapovednoye Polostvo Foundation and the Zapovedniki Ecocenter organized business and public events as part of the congress, together with representatives of Rosatom and SIBUR. The congress website: https://yuchncongress2025.org/

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

On October 16, 2025, the Rosatom State Corporation and the Zapovednoye Embassy Foundation made a statement on international cooperation at the IUCN Congress in Abu Dhabi.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Preserved Embassy Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Rosatom State Corporation and the Nature Embassy Charitable Educational Foundation announced the creation of an online platform that will consolidate global business research and best corporate practices in biodiversity conservation and environmental education. The announcements were made at a press conference held by the Nature Embassy Foundation jointly with Rosatom State Corporation at the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) World Conservation Congress, which took place in Abu Dhabi from October 9 to 15.

Both organizations also presented their research. "Zapovednoye Polost" (Protected Embassy) announced the results of a big-data study on public attitudes toward protected areas. Rosatom announced the launch of a biodiversity study in areas where nuclear industry organizations operate in at least 32 Russian cities, and potentially abroad.

"We have launched a systematic research project to study biodiversity in areas where the nuclear industry operates. The study will be conducted jointly with the Ecology Research Institute and will examine endangered species that inhabit areas where the nuclear industry operates, including 10 natural areas located in close proximity to Rosatom cities. We are confident that we will not only identify the problems but also find solutions, including technological ones. For example, many of the interesting practices discussed at the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi can be applied in Russia. Researching the biodiversity conservation agendas of corporate sectors in various countries is also a major, ambitious undertaking. This is a key component of our research, and following these findings, we believe it is important to share the findings with the professional community and young people," noted Olga Shkabardnya, Director General of ANO Energy of Development and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility and Internal Communications at Rosatom State Corporation.

Olga Shkabardnya explained that the results of the large-scale study will be presented on a new online platform, which Rosatom will launch in partnership with the Nature Conservation Embassy Foundation. It will consolidate best practices in biodiversity conservation. "Together with the Nature Conservation Embassy Foundation, we initiated the creation of a unified international platform where, in addition to best corporate practices and research in biodiversity conservation from around the world, we will also feature announcements of key biodiversity-related events, opportunities for exchanging best practices, and opportunities for networking between scientists, young people, and entrepreneurs. The platform should become a space for communication and information exchange between science, NGOs, government, and business to most effectively address biodiversity conservation challenges and replicate best practices." The speaker emphasized that the demand for the popularization of effective biodiversity conservation solutions on a single resource was voiced at the Congress.

Natalia Danilina, President of the Nature Conservation Embassy Foundation and Director of the Zapovedniki Ecocenter, a leading nonprofit organization with nearly 30 years of experience working with protected areas, emphasized the importance of business collaboration with environmental organizations and protected areas. Specifically, she mentioned projects implemented in partnership with the Nature Conservation Embassy Foundation by Norilsk Nickel, JTI Russia, SIBUR, MTS, and others. "We are confident that the formula for effective cooperation for nature conservation is a three-pronged partnership: protected areas, which are directly responsible for nature conservation, and businesses and nonprofits, which organize joint project development and jointly find innovative solutions to address conservation issues as effectively as possible," noted Natalia Danilina.

Yulia Vereshchak, Director of International Projects at the Nature Embassy Foundation, shared information about a large-scale study conducted by the Foundation in collaboration with Tomsk State University and the Cyberia Lab. "Using lingua-markers, we trained a program that helped analyze local population attitudes toward protected areas across all federal districts of Russia, including national parks, nature reserves, inspectors, science departments, and volunteer organizations. Our big data study covered over 3.5 million data points over a year. The goal of the study was to understand local population attitudes toward protected areas. Do Russians know what activities are conducted in protected areas, what biodiversity is, have they ever seen an inspector, have they participated in environmental festivals, are they willing to volunteer, and do they understand that it's possible to visit a protected area as a tourist while adhering to ecotourism standards? We intend to dedicate the second part of the study to transboundary territories. We are confident that the results of this study will help to more effectively manage protected areas and develop international cooperation in the field of biodiversity conservation."

REFERENCE:

The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) World Conservation Congress is held every four years and sets development priorities and cooperation formats for nature conservation and biodiversity preservation for years to come. The Congress is the largest platform for exchanging experiences in environmental protection and sustainable development. In 2025, the IUCN Congress welcomed over 1,400 IUCN member organizations from 160 countries and was attended by 10,000 participants. Scientists, experts, representatives of businesses, NGOs, and natural areas from around the world shared experiences, innovations, and work results at several hundred events.

Russia is an active member of IUCN. The Zapovednoye Polostvo Foundation and the Zapovedniki Ecocenter organized business and public events as part of the congress, together with representatives of Rosatom and SIBUR.

Congress website: https://yuchncongress2025.org/

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

On October 14, a meeting of the Working Group on the Preservation and Strengthening of Traditional Russian Spiritual and Moral Values, organized by the Public Council under the Ministry of Natural Resources, was held in the building of the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Save Nature Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The main theme of the meeting was the development of a concept for the activities of public organizations and private initiatives in the field of environmental and patriotic education of youth, as a unified direction for creating a culture of active citizenship.

Working group members and members of the Public Council, together with representatives of environmental and patriotic NGOs, discussed how to align the initiatives of public organizations engaged in environmental and patriotic education with the traditional values outlined in the decree of the President of Russia, as well as identifying successful practices and tools for incorporating traditional values into environmental education activities. An important component of the discussion was the understanding that patriotic education is based on the principle of the inextricable link between ecology, historical memory, and love for the Motherland, where caring for nature is seen as a continuation of the memory of the heroic deeds of our ancestors.

The meeting began with an opening speech by Nikolai Sergeyevich Doronin, Chairman of the Public Council under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation, who emphasized the symbolism of the intersection of the 17 values with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

The floor then passed to Vladimir Evgenievich Pinaev, a member of the Public Council's working group on the preservation and strengthening of traditional Russian spiritual and moral values, who focused on patriotic education and noted that patriotism is based on a love of nature.

Pavel Aleksandrovich Pokrovsky also greeted those present in a video message and noted the contribution of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the working group members to the development of a cultural and active civic position for public organizations.

Presentations of activities and exchange of practices in environmental education, taking into account the promotion of traditional values, began with a speech by Lieutenant Roman Vladimirovich Ledenev, head of the TINAO All-Russian public organization of veterans "COMBAT BROTHERHOOD."

The floor was then given to Maxim Vladimirovich Tokarev, Director of the ANO “Center for the Development of Environmental and Social Projects,” member of the Coordinating Council of the All-Russian Environmental Movement “Ecosystem,” member of the expert council of the State Duma Committee on Ecology, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection, member of the Coordinating Council for Environmental Well-Being under the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation.

Natalia Mikhailovna Tornqvist, President and Founder of the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation and member of the Public Council under the Federal Service for Supervision of Natural Resources, spoke about the significant contribution to the development of traditional cultural, spiritual, and moral values in her speech, noting the importance of developing environmental culture and environmental habits within the family.

Yuri Valentinovich Bazhutkin, President of the Association of Ecological Architects for the Administration and Support of Business Processes and Social Projects, emphasized the need to meet young people's needs for relevant content and to communicate with them in a common language.

Arkady Sergeevich Kostyuzhev, Director of the "Ordinary Business" Charitable Foundation for Children and the Environment, will share his experience recycling waste, including turning soft toys into military pillows.

Irina Vasilyevna Golovacheva, Deputy Director for Educational Work at the Patrice Lumumba Institute of Ecology at RUDN University, spoke about the work of the Information and Resource Center "Our Heritage," specifically on educating schoolchildren and developing a sense of responsibility and pride for their native land.

Naila Gainullina, a member of the board of trustees of the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation, also took part in the working group meeting.

The discussion then began, with active participation from the Public Council members. Participants discussed green issues, waste recycling, and a special focus on environmental education, awareness, and environmental career guidance.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

On October 14, a meeting of the Working Group on the Preservation and Strengthening of Traditional Russian Spiritual and Moral Values was held at the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia. The meeting was organized by the Public Council under the Ministry of Natural Resources of Russia.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Save Nature Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Members of the working group and the Public Council, together with representatives of environmental and patriotic NGOs, discussed how to align the initiatives of public organizations engaged in environmental and patriotic education with the traditional values outlined in the decree of the President of Russia. They also discussed identifying successful practices and tools for incorporating traditional values into environmental education activities. An important component of the discussion was the understanding that patriotic education is based on the principle of the inextricable link between ecology, historical memory, and love for the Motherland, where caring for nature is seen as a continuation of the memory of the heroic deeds of our ancestors.

Natalia Tornqvist, President and Founder of the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation and member of the Public Council under the Federal Service for Supervision of Natural Resources, spoke in the section on presenting activities and sharing practices in environmental education, taking into account the promotion of traditional values. She spoke about the importance of developing environmental culture and environmental habits in the family:

"Most parents would like to see their children develop into people with high moral and ethical standards. A child's upbringing and education begins in the family from birth. It depends on the mother, father, and grandparents whether the child will develop a well-developed consciousness and an environmental awareness."

"Environmental culture includes basic knowledge of ecology and practical skills, an emotional attitude toward nature (empathy, compassion, and sympathy), and the ability to notice and perceive the beauty of the world around us," noted Natalya Mikhailovna.

The speaker dedicated her report to the contribution of the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation to the development of traditional cultural and spiritual-moral values:

"The Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation collaborates with and provides financial support to many specially protected natural areas. Our projects help raise an environmentally responsible generation."

Natalya Mikhailovna also shared interesting formats for environmental education:

"For successful environmental education, it's important to engage children in environmental issues through engaging forms of interaction. To this end, the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation has released a fascinating environmental board game, "The Amazing World of Russian Invertebrates."

The Foundation also publishes photo catalogs, books, and atlases popular with libraries and scientists. Of particular value is the international whale catalog, created jointly by staff from the Beringia National Park and marine mammal specialists from Lomonosov Moscow State University.

We hold creative competitions, such as "Tame Reindeer," which attracted over 1,000 entries. Among the initiatives we've supported is an essay contest for schoolchildren. In 2024, the winner of the "Amazing and Unexplored Arctic" competition for high school students took part in aerial monitoring of polar bears. Initiatives like these allow children not only to learn more about nature but also to feel part of an important cause aimed at improving the lives of future generations.

Speaking of traditions and values, we'd like to mention the annual "Reserve Christmas Tree" matinee, which has been held at the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation with the support of the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation for four years in a row.

In 2024, we launched a free educational course on ecology, "Living Action for the Revival of Nature," for schoolchildren, teachers, students, young parliamentarians, and anyone interested in protecting nature. We are currently preparing to launch the second season.

“We also prepare and conduct engaging lessons for schoolchildren about nature and ecology,” noted N.M. Tornqvist.

In closing, Natalya Mikhailovna thanked everyone for the invitation and the opportunity to share her experiences, and expressed hope for uniting caring people and promoting environmental thinking:

"We believe that each of us can contribute to preserving the natural heritage of our great country, because loving our homeland means protecting its nature, preserving the memory of the past, and building a future worthy of those who bequeathed to us the care of the land, water, and air passed down to us by our ancestors."

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

October 16, 2025: 85% of Russians are concerned about environmental protection issues – survey by the Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Ecology Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

85% of Russians are concerned about environmental protection issues, according to a survey by the Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank.

The Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank conducted a nationwide survey on environmental habits and citizens' awareness of the problem of microplastic pollution. The results demonstrated a high level of environmental responsibility among Russians: the overwhelming majority (85%) consider environmental protection issues personally important, and 65% consciously strive to reduce their use of single-use plastics.

The Ecology Foundation is systematically working to reduce microplastic pollution. Key areas include developing waste-separation infrastructure, projects to clean up natural areas, and educational campaigns, including poster sessions for young people. The study was conducted as part of a project supported by the Presidential Grants Fund, which also created a specialized resource. Microplastic.rf, where you can find expert publications on this topic and submit an application for lectures from Foundation experts.

The most popular eco-habits of Russians in 2025

A survey by the Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank revealed that eco-friendly habits have become firmly ingrained in Russians' daily lives. Equal shares of respondents—31% each—regularly use reusable bottles or mugs and conserve electricity and water. Another 18% of respondents indicated that they periodically donate unwanted clothing and electronics for recycling or charity. Eight percent of respondents each expressed a preference for packaging-free goods or locally sourced products. Only 4% of respondents reported no eco-friendly habits in their daily lives.

The majority of respondents (65%) make a conscious effort to avoid purchasing single-use plastic products, which is a key factor in the fight against plastic pollution. Thirty percent of respondents reported that they engage in this habit on an ad hoc basis. Only 5% of respondents said they are not yet ready to reduce their plastic consumption.

Russians have also developed a unique culture of plastic bag use: more than half (58%) reuse them, and almost one in five (21%) strives to completely eliminate them at the checkout. However, 19% of respondents admitted to using bags only once.

Almost every second respondent (48%) already separates plastic waste. However, 50% do not yet do so, indicating significant potential for increased participation in waste separation. Only 2% of respondents in this survey said they do not consider it necessary to sort recyclables.

Almost half of respondents (49%) said they would like to see more recycling bins on the streets. Another 31% cited a lack of space at home. These factors significantly outweighed a lack of information (13%) and a reluctance to spend time (8%).

The Ecology Foundation – a response to public demand

"The survey showed that Russian society has developed a strong demand for an eco-friendly lifestyle and sustainable practices. The Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank will take this data into account in its future work, focusing on educational projects about microplastics and supporting initiatives to develop a waste separation system. For example, the raw materials collected by the foundation—approximately 40.5 tons—are recycled wherever possible. The resulting materials are used to make benches and bins for coastal areas, as well as everyday items such as pens, reusable mugs, and shopping bags," noted Elmira Morozova, Director of the Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank.

The study was conducted by the Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank in September 2025. More than 3,000 people aged 21 to 55 across Russia participated in the survey.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

October 15, 2025 Winter is coming. The bison need our help!

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Ecology Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Winter is coming. The bison need our help!

October 15, 2025

When the first snow falls, bison face a difficult time. Their favorite grasses and shoots are hidden under snowdrifts, and food becomes scarce. To survive the winter, they need our support.

The Klyazminsko-Lukhsky Nature Reserve in the Vladimir Region is home to a herd of bison whose history began in 1989 with the arrival of just nine animals. Thanks to your support, 13 bison calves were born last year alone!

But difficult months lie ahead. To ensure the bison receive supplementary feeding and survive the winter, we need 927,600 rubles. So far, we've raised 22,992 rubles. Every donation brings us closer to our goal!

How to help:

Make a donation on the foundation's website. Share this news to help more people learn about bison!

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

On October 14, 2025, an environmental cleanup of the Volga River took place in Saratov.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Ecology Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

An environmental cleanup of the Volga River banks took place in Saratov.

Employees of the Saratov branch of Rosselkhozbank, together with the Ecology Foundation and representatives of Rosprirodnadzor, conducted a cleanup along the Volga River in Saratov's Gagarinsky District. The event was held under the motto "Ecology is Everyone's Business."

The main goal of the campaign was to preserve the cleanliness and natural beauty of the riverbank of one of the country's main rivers. During the event, volunteers collected trash and installed information boards and benches with trash cans made from recycled plastic. These products are durable and long-lasting—they will serve residents for over 50 years, reminding them of the importance of caring for nature.

Elmira Morozova, Director of the Ecology Foundation, noted: "Today, we see how simple steps—participating in cleanups, sorting waste, and setting up eco-points—are shaping a new environmental mindset. Such initiatives bring people together and make it clear that everyone's contribution truly matters. Ecology isn't a one-time initiative, but a way of life that begins with caring for your yard, street, and city."

"Participation in such initiatives has become a good tradition for the Rosselkhozbank team. We are pleased that, thanks to the Ecology Foundation and the support of Rosprirodnadzor, we can make a real contribution to improving the environmental situation in our region. I am confident that such events inspire not only the participants but also the surrounding community," emphasized Alexey Shmelev, Director of the Saratov Regional Branch of Rosselkhozbank.

The event took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere. After the cleanup, participants exchanged ideas for developing green initiatives in the city.

Employees of the Saratov Russian Agricultural Bank are regular participants in environmental and charitable activities. Previously, they planted trees, released fish into ponds, supported the animal shelter they sponsor, and participated in waste recycling campaigns.

Rosselkhozbank and the Ecology Foundation will continue to implement projects aimed at fostering a culture of respect for nature and engaging residents of the region in initiatives that make life cleaner, greener, and kinder.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

October 13, 2025 Microplastics in Everyday Life: How to Avoid Them

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Ecology Foundation

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Microplastics in Everyday Life: How to Avoid Them

The invisible companion of modernity.

We live in a world where plastic has become a part of everything, from packaging to clothing. Its smallest particles (less than 5 mm) are already everywhere: in water, food, air, and even in our bodies.

Scientists are finding microplastics in oceans, rainwater, and Arctic snowpack. Recent studies have shown that microparticles have been found in human blood and lungs.The Guardian, 2023)

It's difficult to completely avoid contact with microplastics, but you can significantly reduce the amount of them in your life.

What is the source of microplastics?

Synthetic clothing (polyester, nylon, acrylic) releases microfibers with each wash.

Plastic containers – especially when heated.

Disposable plastic items: bottles, lids, packaging.

Cosmetics and cleaning products.

How to reduce the amount of microplastics in your home

Do not reheat food in plastic

Hot food and drinks accelerate the release of microparticles. Use glass, metal, or ceramic. Wash eco-friendly.

When washing synthetics, thousands of fibers are released.

Wash full loads at low temperatures.

Give up single-use plastic

Thermal mug – simple things that will help nature.

Be careful with the composition of cosmetics

Choose products without polyethylene, polypropylene, or nylon—these are the ingredients that often hide microplastics.

Small steps – big effect

Every cloth bag and ceramic mug you buy is a step toward reducing plastic waste. Changing even one daily habit makes a big and important difference.

Together we make the world a cleaner place.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.