An awareness-raising event on the topics of climate change, urbanization and sustainable development was organized at the Institute of Geography of the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ANAS PHŞ) within the framework of activities related to the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” in higher education institutions, scientific organizations and institutions. As part of this initiative, students of grades IX–XI from Secondary School No. 8 of the Nasimi district visited the Institute of Geography. The main purpose of the educational meeting was to increase students’ interest in geography and to inform them about climate change processes, urbanization trends and sustainable development issues.

The event was opened by the Acting Director of the Institute of Geography, Doctor of Geographical Sciences, Associate Professor Zaur Imrani, who welcomed the students. He emphasized that climate change in the modern era has a serious impact not only on the environment but also on socio-economic sectors. He noted that food security, protection of water resources, improvement of urban environments and ensuring human well-being are directly linked to these processes. Zaur Imrani also highlighted that the concept of ecological framework is one of the key mechanisms integrating all these directions. According to him, proper planning of cities and regions, increasing green areas, and protecting natural territories contribute to ensuring a healthy lifestyle for the population.

Then, Head of the Laboratory of Landscape Science and Nature Use at the Institute, Doctor of Geographical Sciences, Associate Professor Mirnuh Ismayilov delivered a presentation on the topic “Urbanization and transformation of natural landscapes.” He spoke about the changes occurring in natural landscapes as a result of rapid urbanization, the reduction of green spaces, and the risks of ecological imbalance. He explained the concept of an ecological framework, noting that it represents the formation of a unified network of natural elements within cities and regions. The presentation also addressed the importance of ecological corridors, their role in biodiversity conservation, and the organization of landscape-ecological framework management structures. Mirnuh Ismayilov also introduced the “hybrid green corridor” model, noting that this approach enables the harmonization of urban development with nature conservation.

Following this, Rızvan Qarabaglı, PhD in Architecture and a member of the Union of Architects of Azerbaijan, spoke at the event. He discussed the important role of architecture in society, emphasizing that modern architecture is not only about constructing buildings, but also about creating comfortable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing living environments for people. Rızvan Qarabaglı encouraged students to show interest in architecture and urban planning in the future.

At the end of the event, students were awarded certificates for their active participation in the awareness-raising meeting held at the Institute of Geography. They also had the opportunity to become closely acquainted with the Institute’s activities, interact with scientists, and receive answers to their questions. The meeting was received with great interest by the participants.