The State University of Moldova and LuRenOm expand collaboration for innovative projects and sustainable practices

Chișinău, January 10, 2025 – The State University of Moldova (USM) and the Civic Association "Lumina Renașterii Omului - LuRenOm" (widely known as the Arboretum.Live platform) have signed a set of annexes today to update the existing partnership agreement. These documents mark a significant step in addressing current environmental challenges in our country and the region by implementing innovative and sustainable practices.

By signing these annexes, the parties have agreed to initiate three new projects focused on technology transfer and innovation, impacting education, research, and environmental protection. The projects will be located on the infrastructure of the State University, and the design process for modernization has already begun.

The new initiatives include:

• Didactic-Scientific-Practical Nursery and Seed Center – The technological transfer to containerized seedling cultivation represents the main challenge for both the National Program for Forest Expansion and Rehabilitation – "Forest Generation" and horticulture, urban planning, and landscaping. Developing a platform to ensure the scientific aspect of this transition is the main focus of this process. This initiative supports the transition to modern and scalable technologies, importantly adapted to the country’s conditions and the genetics of local species.

• Permaculture Ecopark – A scientific-educational park in Chișinău, dedicated to experiments and promoting the principles of permaculture. It focuses on practical testing and applying solutions for the rehabilitation of degraded lands. The project aims to contribute to the training of specialists in permaculture and land reclamation.

• Hub for Environmental NGOs and Biotechnology Startups – Creating an interdisciplinary space for collaboration between environmental organizations and startups in fields such as biotechnology, plant protection, and sustainable development. This hub aims to stimulate innovation and facilitate access to essential resources and infrastructure.

These projects will create new opportunities for education and research, as well as for the direct application of innovative practices in forestry, environmental protection, and sustainable development. The results obtained from these projects are expected to be reflected in the process of updating the curriculum for specialists at the Faculty of Biology and Geosciences. Additionally, the created platform offers ample space for research by aspirants in highly applicable and necessary fields for the country.

As part of the partnership, USM provides land, laboratories, and other resources, while the Arboretum.Live platform coordinates fundraising and project implementation.

“These initiatives reflect our shared commitment to providing concrete solutions to environmental challenges and supporting the training of future generations of experts in critical areas. This collaboration combines education, research, and innovation for a more sustainable future,” said Igor Șarov, Rector of the State University of Moldova.

In turn, Alexandru V. Sainsus, President of the Civic Association "Lumina Renașterii Omului - LuRenOm," emphasized: “The Arboretum.Live platform remains open to collaboration with other organizations, experts, and initiatives that share our aspirations for sustainability and innovation.”

Through this expanded partnership, the two institutions call on the scientific community, international organizations, and funders to support the announced initiatives, which can become a model of best practices not only for our country but also for the entire region.