Vicky Mkrtchyan is an esteemed environmentalist with a profound commitment to conservation and sustainability. Armed with a PhD in ecology, she stands at the forefront of environmental advocacy, leveraging her expertise to drive positive change. As a distinguished USFS Caucasus Alumni and Kinship Conservation Fellow (USA), Vicky embodies a dedication to preserving natural ecosystems and fostering harmony between humanity and the environment.

With over 15 years of multifaceted experience spanning civil society organizations, academia, and the corporate sector, Vicky brings a wealth of knowledge to her work. Her passion for ecology is evident in her extensive publication record, boasting over 10 scholarly contributions to the field.

Vicky’s impact extends beyond academia; she has played a pivotal role in shaping environmental policy in Armenia. Through consultancy and direct involvement, she has contributed to the development and implementation of governmental laws governing fauna and protected areas.

Notably, Vicky co-authored the influential public initiative “Circus without wild animals,” catalyzing legislative action to ban the use of wild animals in Armenian circuses. Her tireless advocacy reflects her unwavering commitment to safeguarding wildlife and promoting ethical treatment of animals. Vicky Mkrtchyan stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship, inspiring others to join her in protecting our planet for future generations.

Currently, she enriches Armenia’s academic landscape as a faculty member at one of its premier universities, where she spearheads a pioneering study on nature-based solutions for urban planning and development, alongside the exploration of green architecture concepts.

In addition to her academic endeavors, Vicky channels her expertise into mentoring the next generation of environmental leaders on behalf of students, particularly focusing on urban air pollution and waste management challenges in Yerevan, Armenia’s capital. Through her dedicated mentorship and research within the EAP Fellowship, she will illuminate the gaps and progress in ongoing city projects, poised to catalyze policy review and advocacy for enhanced environmental governance in the city.

Reflecting on her holistic approach to conservation, Vicky shares, “True sustainability lies in the intersection of academic inquiry and practical action. It’s not enough to study environmental issues; we must actively engage with communities and policymakers to enact meaningful change.” With this ethos, Vicky Mkrtchyan continues to inspire progress towards a more sustainable and equitable future for Armenia and beyond.