Walking 400 Kilometers for Trees: Kyrgyz Activist Sets Out from Karakol to Bishkek

The route, which stretches for more than 400 kilometers, passes through several regions of Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, Panaev plans to meet with local residents, speak about the importance of restoring green spaces, and encourage people across the country to support environmental initiatives.

According to the activist, the campaign is being carried out under the slogan of protecting a shared future and promoting a greener Kyrgyzstan. This spring alone, around 17,000 trees were planted through his foundation. However, the team has set a far more ambitious goal – to increase that number to 100,000 saplings.

To make participation easier, the foundation has introduced an online donation system accessible via a QR code. The cost of planting one tree is 150 soms.

“A simple action can help create a brighter future. Take care of yourselves and of nature,” Panaev said in his message to the people of Kyrgyzstan.

In recent years, Central Asian countries have increasingly faced the effects of climate change, including droughts, water shortages, and land degradation. Against this backdrop, initiatives aimed at tree planting and ecosystem restoration are becoming not only environmental projects but also important civic efforts that draw attention to the region’s long-term challenges.