On June 30 at 7 PM, an educational and creative workshop on the biodiversity of the Neretva Valley was held in the city park in Opuzen. The workshop brought together many children aged 6 to 12 and was organized by the Regional Agency DUNEA as part of activities carried out under the COASTRUST project. The aim of the workshop was to introduce young participants to the importance of preserving natural habitats and the rich plant and animal life of the Neretva Valley, one of the most valuable and diverse ecosystems in Croatia.
Through interactive, child-friendly activities—such as games, a treasure hunt, and a short educational presentation—participants learned about the species inhabiting the wetlands, the river, and surrounding meadows. Special emphasis was placed on the protection of wetland birds, endemic plants, and endangered animal species characteristic of the area. The workshop was led by an external biology expert, and the atmosphere was lively and engaging. Children actively participated in all activities and, at the end, received symbolic gifts and educational materials to continue exploring nature beyond the workshop.
The COASTRUST project aims to strengthen the resilience of coastal communities through sustainable natural resource management, and this workshop is part of a broader series of activities connecting the local community, educational institutions, and experts. Educating children is considered a key step toward long-term environmental conservation, as the youngest generations can become drivers of change and protectors of nature. Such workshops not only provide children with new knowledge in an engaging and accessible way but also foster a sense of connection to their local environment, encouraging them to observe the world around them with greater care and respect.
