One thousand saplings of native trees given to visitors of Krka National Park

Krka National Park has joined in the European campaign “Growing Together”, which has set the goal of planting three billion new trees by the end of the decade

Forests in Croatia cover about 44% of the land area. By planting trees, we are promoting the significance of green infrastructures and nature-based solutions as a tool for adapting to and mitigating climate change, in order to create more resilient and sustainable cities of the future. Planting appropriate native plant species that are suitable to the local conditions contributions to restoring biodiversity and ecosystem services that these areas provide.

“Our campaign covers the four fundamental criteria: the right tree, the right place, the right time, and the right purpose. By giving native plants, laurel and strawberry tree, so that our visitors can plant them in their yards, we have med all these criteria,” stated Nella Slavica, director of the Public Institute of Krka National Park. She added, “We invite all those who have received a tree to register their tree on the application MapMyTree to become a part of this grand forest community.”

The Republic of Croatia has joined in the initiative of the European Commission to plant three billion trees by 2030. To increase resilience, preserve biodiversity and combat climate change, the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development, Ministry of Tourism and Sport, and Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction and State Assets all support the protection and sustainable management of forest ecosystems, with special emphasis on green infrastructure in cities.

“The task of the Ministry is to provide saplings to make public spaces greener, such as parks and tree lined streets, and by implementing such campaigns, to raise awareness of the benefits of planting,” said Igor Kreitmeyer, head of the Nature Protection Directorate of the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development. He added, “I am very pleased that one of the first campaigns to give out saplings is being held at Krka National Park, where we can enjoy the benefits of forests first-hand. It is important to stimulate planting using native species, and to make these saplings accessible to all.”

In order to increase the capacity of green infrastructure, Croatia will plant a million trees every year until 2030. Increasing planting resolves a series of functions. Trees create shade, clean the air, reduce noise, and mitigate the effects of heat waves. Trees in urban areas contribute to biodiversity and enable both people and animals to feel better in cities. Functionally planned urban areas with plenty of green spaces create high quality living conditions, and additionally contribute towards the goal of a climate neutral society.