Urbanization and the rise of industry have made waste production an increasingly significant problem. Plastic, especially single-use plastic, represents the primary source of modern pollution. While paper packaging is often offered as an alternative to plastic, it brings additional challenges to waste management systems. Such packaging frequently contains other materials and additives, leading to accumulation in landfills.
The issue of marine litter is also becoming more visible and significant in Croatia. In addition to being a direct consequence of human activity on land, significant shortcomings and failures in waste management systems contribute to the pollution of our coastlines. Marine litter is not an environmental problem that can be solved solely through laws, beach cleanups, or technical solutions. It is a cultural issue, requiring significant efforts to change community behavior.
The Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development Department is focused on reducing environmental pollution, establishing an effective waste management system, and implementing an appropriate legislative framework. The department works interdisciplinarily with experts, educational institutions, universities, local government units, the business sector, volunteers, and interested citizens.
For many years, through the Dalmatia Green program, we have been promoting sustainable accommodation, local and organic food, unique souvenirs, sustainable activities, responsible travel practices, and visits to unique locations in Dalmatia.
Through projects and areas of work, we contribute to:
- developing and promoting the implementation of responsible public environmental policies at both local and national levels,
- improving public awareness and participation in environmental protection and the principles of sustainable development,
- enhancing the implementation of sustainable waste management in the city of Split and Dalmatia, based on the principles of reducing waste generation, reusing, and recycling,
- developing sustainable tourism.
Through the Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development Department, strategic goals are pursued regarding the promotion of principles and practices that contribute to environmental protection and sustainable development and the strengthening of knowledge and skills in this area.
The department achieves strategic goals by promoting principles and practices that contribute to environmental protection and sustainable development, as well as strengthening knowledge and skills in these areas.
Current projects in the Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development Department:
From river to the sea – let’s be plastic free
ML-FREE: Marine Litter-Free Adriatic Sea – Education for Active Youth Participation
Marine litter free Dalmatian Island
Career for Green, Digital and Sustainable Tourism
Plastic-Free Croatian Island
FishNoWaste – Waste reduction and management in fishing ports of the Adriatic Sea to promote sustainable fisheries
WASTEREDUCE – Integrated waste reduction strategies and solutions in protected and Natura 2000 areas
AWASTER – Adopting WASTE as Resource