Ucom Shares Its Experience in Private Sector Engagement in Nature Conservation at COP17 Blue Zone

Ucom General Director Ralph Yirikian participated in two panel discussions held in the Blue Zone of the 17th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP17) in Yerevan, focusing on financing nature conservation and engaging the private sector in these efforts.

The first discussion, held on October 26 at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) pavilion, addressed the challenges of financing conservation initiatives outside state-protected areas, developing sustainable financing mechanisms, and exploring opportunities for greater private sector involvement.

Ralph Yirikian shared Ucom’s experience of cooperation with the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC), highlighting the practical conditions needed to integrate nature conservation into business operations and long-term corporate responsibility. A key topic of discussion was also how to encourage broader private sector participation in financing conservation projects.

The second panel discussion, titled “From Recognition to Resources: Financing the Diverse Stewards of Nature towards Target 3,” was held on October 29 at the Armenia Pavilion and organized by FPWC and IUCN.

The discussion focused on expanding financing opportunities for governmental and non-governmental conservation actors, building long-term partnerships, and improving access to financial resources. Particular attention was given to strengthening cooperation among local communities, environmental organizations, and the private sector.

Representing the private sector, Ralph Yirikian emphasized the importance of long-term corporate engagement in nature conservation, presenting Ucom’s approach, which goes beyond financial support to include the use of technology, renewable energy, and human resources.

“Nature conservation is not solely the responsibility of governments or environmental organizations. Businesses can also play an important role by contributing not only financial resources but also their expertise, technologies, and capabilities. The partnership between Ucom and FPWC is a practical example of this approach. We aim to develop long-term solutions that deliver a tangible impact on nature conservation. I am confident that successful partnerships of this kind can encourage other companies to make environmental initiatives an integral part of their operations,” said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

Through its long-standing partnership with FPWC, Ucom has implemented a range of environmental initiatives, including the installation of solar energy systems, the deployment of surveillance and monitoring technologies for wildlife conservation, and the provision of telecommunications connectivity in remote areas of environmental importance. Ucom employees are also actively involved in environmental programs, participating in tree-planting activities and other initiatives.

Both panel discussions addressed issues raised during the Yerevan Conservation Symposium 2026, held on October 17–18. The Yerevan Call to Action, developed as an outcome of the Symposium, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the diverse actors involved in nature conservation, ensuring their access to the resources needed for their work, and developing sustainable financing mechanisms.

Ucom served as a Strategic Partner of the Yerevan Conservation Symposium 2026 and, as part of its cooperation with FPWC, also participated in COP17 Green Zone events, showcasing initiatives in nature conservation, renewable energy, and technological solutions.