This article examines the significance of biocultural heritage as a component of contemporary environmental education in the context of European environmental and educational transformation. It analyzes contemporary approaches to developing environmental competence through the integration of conservation activities, science communication, citizen science, and digital educational practices. Particular attention is paid to the role of local natural areas in shaping communities’ environmental awareness. The article presents the experience of the Institute of Animals Breeding and Genetics nd. a. M.V. Zubets of National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine (NAAS), located in close proximity to the «Chubynsky Farmstead» landscape reserve, in implementing environmental education initiatives aimed at promoting natural heritage and preserving veteran oaks as elements of the biocultural landscape of the Middle Dnieper region. The article highlights the implementation of a local environmental education project in the community and the development of the digital scientific and educational initiative «Chubynsky’s Ancient Oaks: The Living Biocultural Heritage of the Middle Dnieper Forest-Steppe» as part of the international initiative Fascination of Plants Day 2026. The significance of local nature conservation areas as open educational environments and centers for fostering a culture of responsible attitudes toward nature is substantiated.
