New Croatian Urban Forest Planted in Zaprešić

In Zaprešić, Croatia, a significant step towards environmental enhancement and community engagement was taken with the planting of the second, and largest, urban "Crošnjica." This initiative, a collaborative effort between the Croatian Scouts Association and the creative agency HEARTH, underscores a growing commitment to ecological restoration within urban landscapes. The "Crošnjica" project, inspired by the Japanese Miyawaki method, focuses on creating highly biodiverse micro-forests in small areas. This particular planting, situated in the courtyard of the Ban Josip Jelačić High School, involved 100 volunteers, including students and faculty, highlighting its educational and community-building aspects.

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Crošnjica is a forest planted in a small area (250-500 square meters) consisting of several groups of indigenous plants – trees, shrubs, subshrubs, and ground cover.

The Miyawaki method, known for its rapid growth and self-sustainability, involves planting a dense mix of native trees, shrubs, and ground cover. This approach not only accelerates forest development but also maximizes ecological benefits. The Zaprešić "Crošnjica," covering 400 square meters and featuring 387 saplings of 22 different plant species, is designed to combat urban heat islands, improve air quality by capturing dust particles, reduce noise pollution, and foster local biodiversity. Its strategic location at a high school makes it a living laboratory for students to learn about ecological processes and plant species.

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This method involves planting all layers of the forest simultaneously.

This project is more than just planting trees; it represents a forward-thinking approach to urban planning and environmental stewardship in Croatia. The involvement of "MUZZA," an association focused on sustainable development, in conducting soil analysis before and after planting, further emphasizes the scientific rigor behind the initiative. The data collected will contribute to a study on the "Crošnjica's" effectiveness in absorbing heavy metals, pollutants, and carbon dioxide. As Croatia continues to integrate sustainable practices into its development, the "Crošnjica" stands as a testament to innovative solutions for a greener future, resonating deeply with a national consciousness increasingly aware of environmental challenges.

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The planting of the latest Croatian Crošnjica, along with volunteers from the Croatian Scouts Association and the HEARTH agency, was attended by students and teachers from the Ban Josip Jelačić High School and volunteers from the main project sponsor, dm – drogerie markt Croatia.