To contribute to increasing public awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation, we invite you to a one-day conference in Split, held on December 3, 2024, at the MedILS Institute. Organized by Sunce, this conference offers a unique opportunity to gain new insights and network with leading experts and enthusiasts from Italy and Croatia who are actively working in the field of biodiversity protection.
Why is the VERA project important?
The biodiversity of agricultural crops in the Puglia and Dalmatia regions is decreasing due to monoculture farming, urbanization, and the abandonment of traditional fruit varieties. This decline negatively affects ecosystems and reduces the resilience of agricultural production to climate change. Additionally, many native fruit varieties are becoming increasingly rare in nurseries, and young people are often unaware of their value and benefits.
The project VERA – Sustainable agricultural models for biodiversity preservation raises awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity and strengthening crop resilience. It incorporates innovative approaches such as joint study visits, workshops, and experience exchange programs between experts and farmers from Italy and Croatia. The project was led by the Municipality of Larino (Italy) in collaboration with Sunce, Permaculture Dalmatia, and Azienda Agricola Dimostrativa “I Giardini di Pomona” di Paolo Belloni.
Goals and significance of the conference
The conference in Split is an opportunity to showcase the concrete achievements of the VERA project and share inspiring examples that highlight the value of collaboration and the preservation of traditional fruit varieties. The conference’s primary goals are to:
- present the project’s achievements and share its results with a broader audience,
- increase awareness among various organizations about biodiversity conservation opportunities,
- highlight the importance of educating children and youth on biodiversity conservation through participatory activities,
- encourage cross-border collaboration and networking among different sectors.
The conference will feature examples of successful partnerships in preserving agricultural diversity and provide a platform for stakeholders to establish new connections. The program includes presentations on best practices and sustainable models that are already yielding results in biodiversity preservation and promotion.
How to participate?
We invite all interested individuals—farmers, agronomists, community members, educators, students, youth, and anyone passionate about nature and biodiversity conservation—to register and secure their spot at the conference. Registration is open until November 25, and you can register here.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of an important event and contribute to protecting our natural heritage for future generations. Join us in Split on December 3, and together, let’s lay the foundation for a more sustainable and biodiverse future!
The project is co-financed by the European Union’s Interreg program and the Office for Associations of the Government of the Republic of Croatia.
