Havana, August 22 (RHC) -– The preservation of coastal environments, mangroves and soils in Cuban north eastern region is the prime objective of the "Ecoarte" child-youth project.

Melaneo Maden, coordinator of the initiative, told Ahora newspaper that the program involves children of primary education through interest clubs, workshops, art exhibitions and recollection of solid waste on beaches.

The infants also develop other initiatives including planting native species in mining areas, action that mitigates the impact of this economic activity on the environment, the coordinator said.

The project dedicates space for educational talks, distribution of information dealing with environmental protection and conservation of flora and fauna, particularly endemic species such as the Holguin Flower and Dragon Tree, unique in ecosystems located north of the province, he added.

Ecoarte emerged on August 13, 1996 as an initiative of CUBANIQUEL Business Group to promote environmental education. The reforestation of more than 200 hectares of mangroves stand out among its most relevant results. The program was granted this year

For its contribution to the community, the program has earned several national and international awards including ¨Los Zapaticos de Rosa, ¨granted each year in Cuba to recognize outstanding individuals and institutions working with children and adolescents, and the 2014 Environment National Award.