The new interactive guidebook can become a starting point for real journeys to explore Belarus’ nature reserves

In Belarus, a unique interactive anthology has been created, inviting you on a captivating journey through the Republican Biological Reserve "Dnieper-Sozhsky".

May 7, 2024

Online version of the guidebook (in Russian) https://mezhdurechje.greencross.by/

Belarus’ specially protected natural areas, also known as nature reserves, are invaluable resources for fostering green education, advancing scientific knowledge, and promoting the development of nature and ecological tourism. However, to ensure that this knowledge and these opportunities are sought after, it's crucial not only to disseminate them to potential visitors but also to encourage tourists to experience these reserves firsthand.

To address this, an initiative titled "Promoting Biodiversity Conservation" was launched through collaboration between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Belarusian Green Cross, with support from the Embassies of Austria, Great Britain, Germany, and Switzerland in Belarus.

The culmination of this partnership is an interactive compilation of materials - a guidebook - that creatively beckons readers on an immersive journey through the distinctive natural landscape of southeastern Belarus: the Dnieper-Sozhsky Republican Biological Reserve.

This guidebook seamlessly combines elements of popular science publication, gaming, and tourist guidance, offering readers an engaging and informative experience.

The guidebook features six interactive cognitive modules across various topics.

Illustration provided by the authors of the guidebook: Green Cross.

The guidebook "Dnieper-Sozhsky Reserve" comprises six interactive cognitive modules, each offering a virtual journey through diverse natural, historical, and cultural sites of the reserve.

These include sand dunes, floodplain oak forests, flood meadows, the village of Abakumy, the ferry crossing over the Dnieper River, and the small town of Loev.

Within each module are cards featuring images of plants, animals, birds, insects, as well as local historical and ethnographic objects.

Illustration provided by the authors of the guidebook: Green Cross.

Within each module are cards featuring images of plants, animals, birds, insects, as well as local historical and ethnographic objects. Readers can access more information by using QR codes on the cards, which direct them to the electronic version of the collection with additional materials. Moreover, within each module, the cards can be assembled into a puzzle picture, but to do so, correct answers to accompanying questions are required.

What is unique about the guidebook?

The team of developers included scientists from the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, teachers, tourism specialists, artists, and designers.

Photo: UNDP in Belarus

While crafting the materials, the team of developers, comprised of scientists from the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, teachers, tourism specialists, artists, and designers, extensively researched foreign strategies for the development of natural areas. They also integrated local innovations in organizing nature excursions. The outcome was a distinctive format combining educational elements with themes of nature conservation and local development, through promoting ecotourism.

A source of unique knowledge

Another distinctive feature of the materials is the unique information about the reserve, which has never been published before. This includes local history, historical and folklore facts obtained from the local communities. Consequently, the material serves as a genuine portal into the region's history and culture.

Stimulates development of ecotourism

Beyond its educational and scientific value, the guidebook plays an important role in attracting tourists to the reserve's natural and tourism potential.

Photo: UNDP in Belarus

Featuring original artwork - meticulously hand-drawn by professional artists - and clear, engaging texts, it forges an intellectual and emotional bond between readers and the territory, spurring a desire for firsthand exploration. Complementing these features are meticulously rendered maps highlighting key points of interest.

Thus, the interactive guidebook "Dnieper-Sozhsky Reserve" is a novel format that not only brings new, unique knowledge to readers but also stimulates their interest in the local flora, fauna, historical and cultural heritage, thereby inspiring real journeys through Belarus' natural areas.

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