Protection of the environment, ensuring life in a healthy natural environment, efficient use of natural resources for improving welfare of the citizens are part of social and economic reforms implemented in Azerbaijan.  The fact that the President of Azerbaijan places a constant emphasis on ecological and environmental issues has significantly amplified activities implemented in the area of improving environmental conditions and enabled successful realization of a number of large projects, some of which are continuing. 

A large number of activities have been implemented by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources during the reporting period.  These activities focused on increasing efficiency of activities aimed at resolution of ecological problems, prevention of further ecological issues and facilitating effective solutions for shortcomings that have occurred. 

Currently, consistent measures are being taken in the area of resolving pressing environmental problems based on sustainable development principles within the framework of relevant state programs.  Hence, implementation of activities as part of programs “on Environmentally Sustainable Social and Economic Development” and “On Efficient Utilization of Summer-Winter Pastures and Hayfields and Prevention of Desertification,” as endorsed by the President of Azerbaijan, has continued during the reporting period. 

Due to the functioning of “Environmental Protection System for the Caspian Sea,” which consists of module waste water refinery equipments, established based on Decrees of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan “On Certain Measures for Protection of the Caspian Sea from Pollution” majority of swamps and waste water ponds in Bilgah, Buzovna, Mardakan, Pirshagi, Nardaran, Novkhani and Sumgayit coastline have been rehabilitated and ecological balance have been restored. 

To this end, 7 stations with a capacity to refine 2325 m3 waste water per day have been established during 2009.  In general, 16 stations have been established during 2008-2009 with a capacity to refine 6140 m3 waste water per day. 

Based on Decrees “On Certain Measures for Improving Provision of the Population with Ecologically Clean Potable Water,” activities aimed at providing remotest settlements in the country which lack centralized clean water with safe and potable water as soon as possible.  Within the framework of the Program, activities have been completed in 122 villages of 12 regions which contributed to provision of 224 thousand persons with high quality potable water.  Additionally, activities aimed at constructing module water purification equipments in 62 villages of 18 regions. 60 of the equipments that have been constructed are operational. 

In regards to implementation of “Complex Activity Plan for 2006-2010 on Improvement of Ecological Situation in the Republic of Azerbaijan,” a number of projects are successfully implemented.  Technical Economic Substantiation has been developed for improving ecological situation around the International Airport named after Heydar Aliyev and activities have started to plant trees, rehabilitation of natural landscape, and establishment of a recreational park after Sadarak and Bina Trade Centres have been moved. 

Hence, 5000 trees have been planted in 5 hectares of the territory of former Bina Trade Centre on December 24, 2009 during voluntary work by about 600 staff members of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.  Participation of Mr. Ilham Aliyev with his wife at this event was especially encouraging.  This voluntary work echoed in other parts of the country and similar activities are being carried out every weekend. 

56422 m3 of toxic waste water with mercury content that resulted in a serious pollution of the environment in Sumgayit city was transported and treated in Hazardous Waste Materials Zone during 2007-2009, including that of 23, 5 thousand m3 in 2009.  This process was fully completed during the mid Reporting Period. 

In regards to implementation of Decrees “On Planting Trees on Protection Strips of Automobile Highways” and “On Additional Measures on Planting Trees in Baku City” during the reporting period, 90 % efficiency was achieved due to constant care with growth of 172 thousand trees and shrubs planted on Alat-Hajigabul highway during previous years for improving aesthetic view of highways and maintaining protection strips. 

Similar results were also obtained in highways that connect the Heydar Aliyev Airport with Baku.  80 % efficiency was achieved in fields cultivated on 196 hectares of land under complex forest conditions along Zigh-Heydar Aliyev Airport highway, which was made possible due to adequate rehabilitation measures to clean the land polluted from oil products, iodine, and bromine. 

At the same time, different types of about 60 thousand trees were planted along Azizbayov Circle - Heydar Aliyev highway.  Additionally, lawns were cultivated on an area of 50 thousand m2 along this highway. 

Large scale activities are being implemented in reference to the initiative of the President of Azerbaijan on planting three million trees in Baku and its surroundings.  In this regard, various sites have been identified in different parts of Absheron Peninsula and projects have been developed for Bayil Slope – 20th Field, Zigh Lake-Heydar Aliyev Airport, Zigh Lake and its surroundings, as well as surroundings of Sangachal Terminal. 

In reference to implementation of the Decree of the President of Azerbaijan “On Establishment of a Zoological Park,” a call for proposals was conducted and relevant activities are being continued. 

During 2009, funds in following amounts were deposited:

In terms of funds allocated through the State Budget for 2009 was relatively less than that of 2007 and 2008 in comparison with the growth rate of the State Budget for the latter years.  In comparison with 2008, funding for environmental projects was decreased during 2009.  Investment costs and reserve funds allocated through relevant decrees of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan for the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources was 30, 850.00 thousand manats.  In comparison, this figure constituted 20, 435.00 thousand manats for 2009.  Further, financing was only for 9, 159.80 thousand manats of this figure.  Consequently, based on distribution of funds per agencies planned as “Substantial State Investment” in the State Budget for 2009 the following amounts were anticipated accordingly:

5.000,0 thousand manats allocated through the Decree of the President of Azerbaijan “On Additional Measures for Planting Trees in Baku” were used to procure and plant trees, shrubs and flowers along protection strips on Azizbayov Circle-Heydar Aliyev highway, to construct irrigation systems and other activities.  

Based on the Decree “On Additional Measures Regarding Improvement of Water Provision for the Population,” 10.000,0 thousand manats were allocated for construction of module water purification equipments in additional 188 settlements in regions located along Kur and Aras Rivers.  These equipments will ensure provision of the population with quality potable water through the rivers and other water sources. 

During the reporting period relevant departments of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural resources responsible for supervision of control over protection of the environment have issued 2227 Deeds and 848 Protocols for violations of law by legal and natural persons.  These violations include those related with protection of water resources, atmosphere air, land, depth of land, flora and fauna, as well as waste management.  In regards to resolution of identified shortcomings, 869 compulsory directives have been issued in conformity with relevant legislation.  In general, legal and natural persons who have violated the law were fined for a total amount of 1.546,4 thousand manats over 885 cases.  706 court cases for a total of 2.211,8 thousand manats have been filed for environmental damages and a payment of 814.500,4 manats over 3841 cases was levied on relevant agencies and companies.  38 cases out of 96 referred to law enforcement agencies were reviewed and relevant measures have been taken.  Out of 149 court cases instituted, 101 have been heard.  Further, 79 cases out of 559 which were referred to Court Controllers and Court Officers have been implemented.

211 Deeds and 56 protocols have been issued for protection of water reserves and 120 compulsory directives have been submitted for improvement of identified shortcomings.   In total, a fine amount of 174430,0 manats over 71 cases were levied against legal and natural persons for violation of the law.  21 legal claims amounting to 114450,0 manats have been filed with courts and 408436,47 manats of payments were levied on agencies and companies over 644 cases.  Relevant measures have been taken by respective agencies accordingly:

568 deeds and 127 protocols have been issued for protection of atmosphere air and 333 compulsory directives were submitted for correction of identified shortcomings.  In total, a fine amount of 276665,0 manats over 111 cases against legal and natural persons were issued.  42 court cases worth of 15657,0 manats were filed with courts for damages against the environment.  A payment amount of 223414,1 manats were levied over 1996 cases.  21 cases out of 61 referred to Court Controllers and Court Officers were reviewed and adequate measures have been taken.  2 court cases and one case referred to law enforcement agencies have not been reviewed.  80 deeds and 26 protocols were issued for protection of the environment and 12 compulsory directives were submitted for correction of identified shortcomings.  In total, a fine amount of 30592,0 manats over 27 cases was levied against legal and natural persons for violation of the law.  10 court cases worth 167954,0 manats were filed for damages committed against the environment and a payment amount of 15344,0 manats over 91 cases was levied.  Two cases that were referred to law enforcement agencies were not reviewed.  Court Controllers and Court Officers reviewed 1 case out of 8 referred cases.  Two cases were reviewed by the courts as referred to. 

For protection of the depths of land 210 deeds and 91 protocols have been issued and 19 compulsory directives have been submitted for correction of identified shortcomings.  In total, a fine amount of 246472,0 manats over 172 cases was levied against legal and natural persons for violations of the law.  169 court cases worth of 1740641,89 manats have filed for damages committed against the environment and 21203,0 manats of payments were issued over 57 cases.  7 cases referred to law enforcement agencies were not reviewed.  Courts reviewed 6 cases and additional 2 cases from the previous year as referred to.  7 cases out of 130 were reviewed and relevant measures have been taken by Court Controllers and Court Officers. 

For waste management, 524 acts and 233 protocols have been issued and 328 compulsory directives were submitted for correction of identified shortcomings.  A total fine amount of 582230,0 manats over 223 cases were levied against legal and natural persons for violations of the law.  32 court cases worth of 1721,0 manats were filed for damages committed against the environment and a payment amount of 146002,92 manats over 1052 cases was levied.  Courts reviewed one case and 7 cases from the previous year.  Court Controllers and Court Officers reviewed 14 cases out of 161 and took relevant measures. 

For protection of the flora 585 deeds and 202 protocols were issued and 57 compulsory directives were submitted for correction of identified shortcomings.  A total fine amount of 173553,6 manats over 193 cases was levied against legal and natural persons for violations of the law.  328 court cases worth of 124031,83 manats were filed with courts for damages committed against the environment and 100,0 manats of payment was levied for 1 case.  2 out of 48 cases which were referred to law enforcement agencies were reviewed.  Courts reviewed 9 out of 31 referred cases.  Court Controllers and Court Officers reviewed 6 cases out of 124 and took relevant measures. 

For protection of the fauna 21 deeds and 58 protocols were issued.  A total fine amount of 48095,0 manats over 62 cases was levied against legal and natural persons for violations of the law.  2 court cases worth of 75,0 manats were filed with courts for damages committed against the environment.  2 cases which were referred to law enforcement agencies were not reviewed. Courts reviewed 2 out of 5 referred cases.  Court Controllers and Court Officers reviewed 13 cases out of 25 and took relevant measures.  

Monitoring activities were continued during 2009 in regards to pollution of atmosphere air, rainfall, land, surface water, including radioactive pollution of the environment.  Processes that occur in the environment due to manmade affects have been assessed and forecasted.  At the same time activities have been carried out in reference to creation of a database on environmental situation, including development of effective and regime data and broadcasting of such data. 

Monitoring of pollution of atmosphere air was conducted in 26 observation points located in 8 large industrial cities – Baku, Sumgayit, Ganja, Mingachevir, Shirvan, Nakhchivan, Lenkoran and Sheki.  93826 samples were taken during 2009 for background content of atmosphere air in these cities and specific hazardous substances characteristic for each city and 98204 tests were conducted for 16 pollutants.  238 daily bulletins “On pollution level of atmosphere air and radiation situation of the natural environment” were developed and delivered to state agencies accordingly.  This data was uploaded on the Ministry’s website on a regular basis. 

Monitoring of chemical content of atmosphere rainfall was conducted in 21 observation points located in 6 regions of the country – Absheron Peninsula, Kur-Aras Plains, Lesser Caucasus, North-Eastern and Southern Slopes of Greater Caucasus and Lenkoran for 11 indicators (pH, sulphate, nitrate, phosphate, ammonium, chlorides, calcium, magnesium, roughness, electricity conductivity for electricity and hydrocarbon ions).  3014 chemical tests were conducted on 274 rainfall (rain, snow) samples taken during 2009.

Monitoring for pollution of surface water was conducted in 50 observation points for 42 water bodies (27 rivers, 4 water reservoirs, 1 port, and 10 lakes).  Consequently, 12907 physical and chemical tests were conducted on 784 water samples taken for detergents, oil products, phenols, organic oxidizing, chlorine organic pesticides, heavy metals, and mineral composition of the water.  Hydro-chemical observations were conducted on lakes in Absheron region and activities were continued aimed at researching pollution level in these lakes.  Based on outcomes of the monitoring, 36 hydro-chemical bulletins covering 10 consecutive days for pollution level in Kur and Aras trans-border rivers as well as 12 monthly bulletins on same indicators for surface water bodies were developed and delivered to state agencies accordingly.  Further, this data was uploaded on the Ministry’s website on a regular basis. 

Monitoring conducted for measuring background content, pollution level of land resources for oil products, pesticides and heavy metals was continued.  2933 chemical tests were conducted on 798 soil samples taken during 2009 as part of this monitoring. 

Daily observations for radiation background of the environment covered the entirety of the country and conducted three times a day in 36 observation points.  238 daily bulletins were developed based on conclusions of the measurements and delivered to state agencies accordingly.  This data was uploaded on the Ministry’s website on a regular basis.

Within the framework of “Developing the infrastructure in the area of monitoring radioactivity in the Republic of Azerbaijan” Project and through cooperation with the International Agency for Atomic Energy, automated monitoring control systems have been established in meteorological stations located in border regions of Gazakh, Sadarak (Nakhchivan AR), Beylagan, Astara, Guba regions and Piralli Island for conducting monitoring on radiation background.  Currently, this system functions on a normal basis within the country. 

Within the framework of “Trans-border river management, II Stage for Kur River” Project implemented as part of the TACIS Programme of the European Union, respective department of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources was equipped with equipments, portative tools and computers for collecting and processing of data for monitoring biological monitoring. 

During 2009, mobile monitoring was conducted in sites which are not covered by established observation points, based on relevant requests and commissioned missions, especially in water bodies located on the Absheron Peninsula and sources with strong physical affects.  Based on this monitoring, three “Operative bulletin on pollution level of the environment” were developed “On monitoring of pollution level in atmosphere air,” “On protection of green areas,” “On pollution with noise and vibration.”  These bulletins were delivered to state agencies accordingly and data was uploaded on the Ministry’s website.

During 2009, monitoring was conducted in areas which are not covered by stationary observation points as well.  Such monitoring covered those based on relevant requests and commissions, especially those in water bodies located on the Absheron Peninsula and sources that have strong physical impacts.  Based on this monitoring, three “Operative bulletins on pollution level of the environment” were developed in reference to “Monitoring of pollution of atmosphere air,” “Protection of green areas,” and “Monitoring on pollution with noise and vibration.”  These bulletins were delivered to state agencies accordingly and data was uploaded on the Ministry’s website.
In regards to implementation of the Decree issued by the President of Azerbaijan “On planting trees on protection stripes along automobile highways,” monitoring was conducted on Bayil Slope and tests were conducted on soil samples taken from this area for chemical content.  Monitoring was also conducted on areas along newly constructed Zigh-Airport highway.  Polluted sites were identified in this area and recommendations were developed for normalization of the environment therein. 

Environmental monitoring activities were organized on Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea and its coastline, as well as enterprises and facilities located on the sea, vessels and other similar sites.  341 flows were identified on the Caspian – 310 of them originating on the coast and 31 from enterprises and facilities located on the sea basin. 

During the reporting period: 1371 monitoring activities were conducted; 4152 water and soil samples were taken with 33553 chemical, biological, and ecotoxicological tests were run; and 4 expeditions were organized on pre-identified coordinates on the open sea.  Ecological problems identified through studies on water and soil samples and during observations were documented on weekly and monthly bulletins and delivered to state agencies respectively.

In regards to implementation of the Decrees on the “Plan for Complex Measures on improvement of ecological situation in the Republic of Azerbaijan during 2006-2010” and “Certain measures for protection of the Caspian Sea from pollution,” as endorsed by the President of Azerbaijan during the reporting period, 16 module type local purification systems were constructed on 86 km of the Caspian coastline along Pirallhi-Sumgayit and handed over to respective municipalities.  Aiming at purification of manmade flows to the Caspian Sea, construction of such facilities is ongoing.  Monitoring control activities over these facilities were conducted on a regular basis.  Samples were taken from exit points of these facilities which were tested on a continuous basis.  Outcomes of such tests were documented and delivered to state agencies respectively.

Information on efficiency of module type purification systems
constructed along the coastline on Absheron Peninsula

Researches conducted during 2009 revealed that centralized sewage systems are non-existent on coastlines rich with recreational and beach zones.  Also, generated waste (solid, gas, liquid and other types) are not managed.  Ecological norms are not observed in these areas and it was observed that illegal dump sites identified in certain parts are covering larger territories than before. 

Hovsan and N 32 canals identified as hot spots transport waste water without purification or treatment from Baku to the Caspian Sea.  Majority of isolated foundations that are not exploitable and owned by enterprises operating on the Caspian Sea are dumped on the sea basin.

During monitoring activities conducted on facilities owned by “Azneft” Public Union, certain measures were observed to have been taken in regards to resolution of problems identified during previous years.

During 2009, activities were continued in regards to broadening and protection of the network of specially protected natural sites. 

During the first half of the reporting period, winter inventory activities were conducted in five zones on bird kinds (including sedentary and migratory birds) which are part of the fauna in Azerbaijan.  During the month of June, circle markings of about 1000 different types of semitropical and migratory bird kinds in the country were carried out. 

In order to ensure implementation of activities in regards to establishment of Samur-Yalama National Park, an open call was conducted with participation of foreign companies on February 2009.  During February-May period, initial assessment activities were conducted on establishment of the biosphere reservation (first in the history of the country) in Balaken-Zagatala region along with foreign experts. 

Based on the Decree of the President of Azerbaijan issued on December 26, 2008 (N 109), establishment of a zoological park in Azerbaijan in accordance to most modern standards will be possible.  During September in the reporting period, an open call for proposals was conducted at an international level for design, construction and development project of this zoological park.  The winning company has already started to develop relevant projects. 

Activities carried out in regards to creation of a State Natural Reservation in Khizi-Absheron regions are being finalized which will contribute to protection of the environment in these regions.  For the first time in the history of Azerbaijan, reintroduction of gazelles to their traditional areas will be made possible on this reservation. 

Additionally, Arpachayi State Natural Reservation was created in Nakhchivan AR on June 26, 2009. The Rvarud State Natural Reservation was established on October 2, 2009 in Lerik region. 

The territory of Ordubad National Park of the Republic of Azerbaijan named after Academician Hasan Aliyev was further enlarged by 30666,4 hectares through Shahbuz State Natural Reservation (3139,0 hectares), state forest fund located on Julfa and Ordubad regions (396,4 hectares), summer pastures located in Shahbuz, Julfa and Ordubad regions (21131,0 hectares).  On November 25, 2009 the name of this national park was changed and renamed as the Zangezur National Park of the Republic of Azerbaijan named after Academician Hasan Aliyev.

During the reporting period, 618 deeds and 261 protocols were issued against those who violated the law on special protection regime in national parks and state natural reservations.  The damages committed against the nature were calculated at 49172 manats based on the deeds and protocols and a fine amount of 112168 manats was levied against those responsible.  22 cases were referred to law enforcement agencies and 33 to regional courts.

The actions envisaged for the rehabilitation and increase of forests in 2009 were carried out in technological order in accordance with the agro technical rules.  
So, forest rehabilitation works were carried out in an area totaling 10751 ha in the reporting period, of which 3591 ha area was allotted to carry out forest planting and sowing works. Seeds were sown in the area 57.49 ha, 1180.78 thousand seeding being planted in the area 25.88 ha and 639.2 thousand cutting in the area 12.54 ha. To carry out forestation in the territories of the forest resource, servicing works in the area 30 000 ha and irrigation works were performed in the area 25 633 ha. Seed harvest consisting of tree and bush species was in excess of 143 400 kg. 
Natural weed 774 tons, garden pomegranate 35.4 tons, commodity type honey 1780 kg were harvested in ancillary farming in 2009. In addition, nut, hazelnut, chestnut, wild fruit, tangerine, lemon, feijoa, dog-rose and other agricultural products were harvested.
Forest protection officers of the Republic have made up an act and taken legal actions concerning illegal chopping amounting at 230 000 manats statutory price with the volume 31 840 m3.   
334 cases were referred to law-enforcement authorities.
As a result of the prophylactic and preventive measures against fire, cases of forest conflagration have virtually been eliminated. In general, several fires broke out in the territory 29 ha of the forest resource. Nevertheless, forest resources didn’t sustain any substantial damage thanks to operative countermeasures taken to quench them.
Actions aimed at increasing and protecting water bioresources were also carried out in the reporting period. 
So, sturgeon fish breeding plants released 7.67 thousand baby fishes of sturgeon species in 2009.
Alonside increasing baby fishes in the sturgeon fish breeding plants, works were performed in the area of creating feedstuff base for providing babyfishes with live feed organisms corresponding to biotechnical norms.
130 thousand baby goldfishes are currently bred in the plants expected to be released into water basins in the fish breeding season next year. 
408.45 millions of various fish species were increased based on natural and artificial methods and released into water basins in the fish breeding enterprises specialized in increasing fish species.
So, in 2009,  416,3 million various species of fishery-grown baby fishes were increased artificially and naturally then being released into the water basins of the Republic designed for this purpose.   
As a result of the measures aimed at protecting fish reserves and combating illegal fishing in 2009, 71 law violations were identified and 59 persons brought to account for such violations. 18 cases were referred to provincial courts of the Republic, while 31 cases were referred to law-enforcement authorities as they were of criminal nature. In connection with the damage caused to biological resources, a claim amounting to 55 743 manats was made and penalty imposed.
In the reporting period 2009, systematic and constant hydro-meteorological observations were continued in the territory of the Republic as well as in the area of the Caspian Sea.   
The results of the observations made from hydro-meteorological stations and posts were used in working out long and short-term forecasts. 
Cautions about abrupt weather changes and dangerous hydro-meteorological occurrences in the territory of the republic were timely prepared, semi-diurnal, daily, two daily, and monthly hydro-meteorological forecasts were prepared and delivered to respective state authorities, customer organizations and population via mass-media, TV channels, and radio transmissions. Daily and semi-diurnal forecasts proved to be accurate by 87-91%, cautions made conserning the rayons of Azerbaijan- 85%, the Caspian Sea and Absheron sea area-84-85%, Republican rivers -86%.     
At the Hydro-meteorological Scientific-Research Institute, 8 scientific-research works, devoted to urgent hydro-meteorological issues of the republic, were conducted over 4 problems. The results of 4 scientific works conducted have been printed in a book format. Action plan of the hydro-meteorological and ecological scientific-research center of Bazarduzu-Shahdagh Tufandagh ecosystem was prepared.  Annual Summary was made ready to be published covering dangerous hydro meteorological occurrences in the territory of the Republic.  
To carry out hydro-meteorological and ecological research works in the Bazarduzu-Shahdagh-Tufandagh ecosystems in 2009, “Complex Hydro-meteorological and Ecological Scientific Research Center” was established, automated meteorological stations set up and supplied with all the complex alternative power sources. Apart from obtaining valuable information from the web cameras to be installed at various points of the territory, every citizen of Azerbaijan will have the opportunity to view live those territories via Internet.
       Geological-research and exploration activities in 2009 were carried out along four major directions: geological mapping, research and exploration of ore and non-ore deposits, hydro-geological research and exploration, observation and study of natural processes, earthquake forecasting.   
The works performed covered southern foot of the Greater Caucasus, Nakhchivan structural-metallogenic zones of the Lesser Caucasus, the territories of the Western near Caspian areas covering a stretch of land from Gusar province in the north to Talysh Mountains in the south.   
Gold, molybdenum, and copper ores were uncovered as a result of the geological-research works carried out in the south foot of the Greater Caucasus.
As a result of the nuclear geophysical research works carried out in the northern strip of the Goy-gol ore field in 2009, in the territory 6 km2, a three striped anomaly was identified including high volumes of metal, and also radioactive torium, protactinium, uranium and rare soil neodium, promethium, holmium, erbium and lutesium elements. Clarification works are currently performed in that territory since high uranium concentration is of special concern here.
Exploration works were started in two fields in the territory of Nakhchivan AR and continued in 2009.   

Ecological expert examination works were carried out to avoid adoption of inadequate divisions in the area of environmental protection and efficient utilization of natural resources, maintaining ecologic balance and ensuring consistent development.
The number of requests to undergo ecological expert examination in connection with the construction-installation works in Baku city and surrounding settlements, creation of new production enterprises, including implementation of large-scale projects in the regions and new oil and gas projects specific to our Republic has increased recently.   
To set up new industrial enterprises in connection with the implementation of new infrastructure projects in the Republic, carry out construction-installation works, locate especially important structures of state authorities, and improve living conditions of refugees and IDPs, ecological assessment of land allotment was carried out and implemented by the instruction of the Cabinet of Ministers in the reporting period.     
Special attention was paid to the expert examination of Regional and international projects requiring large volume investments in the Republic, ecological and social assessment carried out taking into account their importance in the economic development of our Republic. In order to improve power supply, develop oil and gas industry, reconstruct road and transport infrastructure and create of new work places in the Republic, such type of documents mainly related to setting up large volume production enterprises meeting modern requirements.
Within the frame of “Complex Action Plan on improving ecological situation in the Republic of Azerbaijan 2006-2010” as approved by the Instructive Order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the draft projects submitted in connection with the recultivation of the land fields contaminated with oil and oil products in the Absheron peninsula for many years was reviewed and agreed upon.
Due to failure to submit in a proper manner, technical project papers not meeting ecological requirements and requested for expert examination, 85 of the papers filed in were returned without agreement.   
Opinions stated in regard with all the papers presented for examination by involving relevant experts within set timelines and public involvement in multiple discussions held was ensured. 
Various information (daily, weekly and monthly bulletins, as well as annual and multiyear reports) were supplied by the subdivisions of MENR (Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources) to the State Information-Archive Fund on Environment and Natural Resources in 2009.  
The materials previously placed on the site of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources regarding environmental issues as well as natural resources were updated on a regular basis. 
In the reporting period, the surplus reserves of the utilized surplus mineral resources that are in the State Balance of the Republic of Azerbaijan by January 1, 2009, was estimated and State Balance relating to the reserve construction materials, non-ore mineral resources and Field balance relating to the mineral resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan were drawn, both papers being presented to the Commission on Mineral Resources of the MENR.        
State Cadastre was worked out and documented relating to 20 ore, 39 non-ore, 196 construction materials, 62 potable water, 29 mineral water, 6 industrial water and 1 thermal water reserves in 2009.      
To supply the need for potable water in 43 cities and province centers in connection with the reconstruction plan of the water supply system in 61 cities and province centers of the Republic of Azerbaijan, data relating to underground waters in those territories were prepared under the order by «AZƏRSU» JSC in the reporting period. 
The State Information-Archive Fund received 61 reports as well as 40 geological, 15 ecological, 3 hydrometeorological and 3 environmental monitoring report relating to the Republic and the Caspian Sea in 2009.  
The study papers on all the reports filed in the State Information-Archive Fund in the reporting year were systemized, 1:500000 scale operative cartograms and contour maps were compiled.      
The information received from relevant authorities concerning the ecological situation of the Caspian Seas was systemized. Dangerous hydrometeorological occurrences in the Caspian Sea were recorded.
   
Diagrams were prepared per 4 discharge ingredients in the air space of Baku, Sumgayit, Ganja, Mingachevir, Shaki, and Shirvan cities based on average dust, sulphur gas, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen 4 oxide indicators.   
173 references were prepared from the Fund’s archive in 2009. 135 references were sent to the citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan and 38 references- citizens of other CIS countries. 
The activity of MENR concerning environment in 2009 was continued also in the area of international cooperation. So, some countries of the region prepared agreements on cooperation with developed countries and international organizations and carried out coordination processes. 
So in June 25 to 28 2009, an agreement was signed on “cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of Latvia on environmental protection” within the frame of the visit of a delegation headed by Mr. Raymonds Veyonis, the Minister of Environmental Affairs of Latvia.  .
In addition, pursuant to the Instructive Order No. 330, dated June 23, 2009, issued by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed on July 17 2009, on “Cooperation in the sphere of continued management of natural resources” between the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Technical Cooperation Organization (TCO) of Germany.
Besides, pursuant to the Instructive Order No. 436, dated August 10 2009, issued by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan the “Memorandum of Understanding On preparing Master Plan on Environmental Management between the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Korean Environmental Industry and Technologies Institute” wa signed in Baku on September 14, 2009, and in Seul on September 16, 2009.  
To develop the cooperation on environment between the Republic of Azerbaijan and Syrian Arab Republic the “Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the environmental protection between the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Environmental Issues  of the Syrian Arab Republic” was submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan in order to pass it through proper state procedures.   
Pursuant to the Instructive Order 117, dated January 16 2009, of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, a cochairman of the Intergovernmental Commission was appointed dealing with trade, economic, scientific, and technological cooperation between the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Indian Government and to this end, the first meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on trade, economic, scientific, and technological cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and India was held on November 26, 2009 and protocol signed in the end.   
The text of “European Landscape Convention” was translated into official language and procedures are underway now to have ratified by the Republic of Azerbaijan of the confirmed version corresponding to the official language. 
Cooperation was carried out in the environmental protection sphere with such international organizations as Global Ecology Fund, the UN’s Development, Industrial Development, Environmental programs, USAID, NATO, World Health Organization, OSCE, the World Bank, European Bank of Reconstruction and Development, Asian Development Bank and etc.  
Publicity and public enlightenment work is defined as one of the priority trends in the multilateral activity of MENR in the environmental protection.
As in the previous years, various public arrangements were held serving ecological enlightenment of the population in 2009.                   
So, on the eve of our National Leader H. Aliyev’s birthday who played a crucial role in the rehabilitation of the ecological environment of our country, an article contest called “Environmental protection for the sake of present and future generations” was held between the students of higher educational institutions together with the NAP Youth Organization in order to more broadly promote the policy of greenery planting and efficient utilization of natural resources implemented by the National Leader since 1970s. Besides, a similar conference, trainings and subbotniks were organized to enlighten the youth living in regions as well.   
Articles were published in mass media on ecologic calendar days (Earth day, Environmental Protection day, Sea day and etc), speeches made at TV and radio channels, subbotniks organized aimed at cleaning and accomplishing residential places of the Republic, seminar-trainings, roundtables were held with the participation of the students and teaching staff of Baku State University, Technical University, Oil Academy and other higher education institution and meetings organized involving experienced specialists of MENR in a number of schools in Baku city.   
To involve the public in the solution of ecologic problems, newsreels devoted o such topics as “Littering of the city”, “Air contamination”, “Desolation” and “Let’s protect sturgeon like species” were broadcast in a number of TV channels and placed in the site of the Ministry.   
As every year, to promote the ideas of improving the ecologic situation in the country, ensuring consistent utilization of the nature, and enlightening population, a contest was held between journalists and TV cameramen devoted to the best article and TV coverages related to the ecologic problems on the eve of June 5 “World environmental day”.
Arrangements over 800 were held serving to regularly promote enlightenment of the population in respect of the ecological issues as carried out by MENR local branches, also seminars, exercises, brainrings, contests, trainings, as well as seminars for mass-media and NGO representatives were organized, proposals and questions relating to the solution of ecologic problems were discussed with the participation of over 30 NGOs and actions taken in the direction of their solution.    
In order to ensure implementation in Azerbaijan of Orhus convention “On access to information concerning environmental issues, public involvement in decision-making and holding open court sessions“ and informing and enlightening population in respect of environmental issues, Orhus Social Ecologic Information Centers were established in Baku, Ganja, and Gazakh cities. Meetings were organized between the Government and Non-Government Organizations aimed at formulating policy issues in the centers, assistances provided in building linkages between local and international organizations, and NGOs were provided with the opportunity to have free access to the literary and Internet resources of public concern. 
Special attention paid by the head of the country to ecologic issues and great achievements made in the socio-economic life of our country over the last years will have a more positive impact on the implementation of the actions directed to rehabilitation of the environment also in the future.