About one and a half million mines planted in Azerbaijan's territories during the occupation have led to devastating environmental consequences, the Chairman of the Board of Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA), Vugar Suleymanov, said, according to Report.
Speaking at the event "Clearing the Way: Combating Mine Threats for Climate Resilience and Sustainable Development," organized by ANAMA and UNDP within the framework of COP29, he emphasized that these mines destroyed rich biodiversity, contaminated fertile lands, and damaged agriculture.
"When explosions occur, heavy metals and toxins enter the soil and atmosphere. This chemical contamination creates long-term risks for plants, nature, and agriculture, making it difficult to restore forests and agricultural lands," said Suleymanov.
According to him, ANAMA has already cleared more than 170,000 hectares of contaminated territories, which has created conditions for environmental restoration, revival of biodiversity, and development of sustainable agriculture.
Suleymanov said that international contributions make up 4.4% of the total funding for demining operations in Azerbaijan's liberated territories.