Final Conference: A step forward in preserving agricultural biodiversity
18/12/2024
On December 3rd and 4th, 2024, the final conference of the VERA project was held at the MedILS Institute in Split. This significant event, organized by Sunce, served as an opportunity to present the achieved results, share experiences, and promote new collaborations for the protection of agricultural biodiversity, emphasizing the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and raising awareness through joint educational activities.
An inspiring and educational meeting
During the conference, inspiring presentations, educational insights, and knowledge exchanges were offered, strengthening the collective commitment to protecting our natural heritage. Margita Radman, Head of the Education and Information Department and project manager at Sunce, emphasized that the event showcased “the power of collaboration and the crucial role of education in conserving biodiversity on a global scale.”
Among the highlights, representatives from the Demonstrative Farm Company I Giardini di Pomona of Paolo Belloni presented their initiative to digitize the fig collection of Puglia, a vital step in preserving the genetic heritage of this essential fruit. The Municipality of Larino shared insights from the study visit to Italy by Croatian partners, where participants explored biodiversity protection models and sustainable agricultural practices. Similarly, Sunce presented the outcomes of the Italian partners' study visit to Croatia, underscoring the importance of cross-border exchange of best practices. The workshops and lectures organized by Permaculture Dalmatia and educational programs for elementary schools developed by Sunce were showcased. As Professor Mila Bulić from the University of Split highlighted, “Practical workshops not only teach children about biodiversity but also help them develop an emotional connection with nature, which is fundamental for fostering responsible environmental behavior.”
The Green Swap Fair
The conference also featured a Green Swap Fair, where participants exchanged gardening tools, seeds, plants, and books. At the booths, university students showcased educational materials and methodologies aimed at raising awareness among younger generations. A special section was dedicated to the European project DesirMED, which focuses on finding nature-based sustainable solutions to address climate change - an initiative that aligns closely with the objectives of the VERA project.
Conclusions and future perspectives
The conference concluded with a call to continue cooperation and take further steps toward sustainable development.
The following day, a visit to Croatia’s only school botanical garden, located at Ostrog Elementary School in Kaštel Lukšić, was organized. Guests marveled at a collection of approximately 1.000 plant varieties and a traditional olive grove featuring historic cultivars. The day ended with a visit to the Kairos Winery, renowned for its Crljenak wine, a symbol of Dalmatian winemaking tradition.
This conference was a moment of great inspiration, emphasizing the importance of working together to protect agricultural biodiversity and build a sustainable future for generations to come.
A special thank you to Sergej Sarchevski for capturing these photos that beautifully tell the story of the event.
