Online Seminar on Sustainable Agriculture Held
Following interest in the sustainable agriculture seminar held in Majkovi, we organized an online training session to enable the participation of as many farmers as possible, particularly those from the area covered by the LIFE for Mauremys project. The seminar aimed to provide practical knowledge and tools for regenerative and ecological farming practices that contribute to the conservation of natural habitats, including Balkan Terrapin habitats.
Session 1 – Sustainable Resource Management and Regenerative Agriculture
Participants were introduced to the lecturers and seminar topics, with a particularly strong turnout from the Dubrovnik-Neretva County. Dr. Bruna Tariba and Tamara Pecoja (WOONA) presented regenerative agriculture and sustainable resource use, including wool as a natural material in various industries. Discussions covered holistic management, mineral, water, and energy cycles, and the role of microorganisms. Attendees developed a resource base concept for their own projects, and an open discussion touched on topics ranging from permaculture to beekeeping and organic production.
Session 2 – Organic Farming and Soil Health
The focus was on biodynamic agriculture, crop rotation, and natural preparations. Jasminka Iličić (OPG Biomara) shared experiences from her organic farm, while Dr. Tariba spoke about microorganisms, composting, and green fertilization. Participants learned about biodynamic preparations such as valerian and horsetail and ways to improve soil fertility. Discussions included organic farming, beekeeping, and adapting agriculture to natural cycles.
Session 3 – Financial Literacy and Market Strategies
Lecturers Nikolina Pokupec (OPG Pokupec) and Zrinka Filipović Dermit (Ruralina, Eko pazarić) focused on financial literacy, sales strategies, and agricultural logistics. Participants discussed efficient production planning, online sales, and regulatory frameworks. The importance of market adaptation and cooperation between producers and consumers was emphasized. The concluding discussion provided valuable advice for improving business operations and the sustainability of rural initiatives.
Session 4 – Permaculture and Ecological Design
Maja Lang Balija introduced permaculture as a holistic approach to life and agriculture. Participants learned about adapting gardens to microclimates, composting, and soil regeneration. The emphasis was on collective action through seed exchange and solidarity-based food production. The seminar concluded with a discussion on applying permaculture principles in everyday life.
Conclusion and Invitation to the Next Seminar in Konavle
The online seminar on sustainable agriculture proved to be a successful step in spreading knowledge and connecting farmers, especially in the LIFE for Mauremys project area. Over four sessions, participants gained theoretical and practical knowledge on regenerative agriculture, soil health, natural preparations, financial literacy, and permaculture. Lecturers shared their experiences and guidelines for improving practices, while participants actively engaged in discussions, exchanging ideas, and laying the groundwork for future collaboration.
The next step is to continue live seminars in Konavle. We invite all interested farmers and small landowners to join us for the seminars, which will be held during the Mediterranean Wetland Weekon Friday and Saturday, April 25 and 26, from 5:00 PM at the Monastery in Pridvorje, as part of the local event Springtime in Konavale.
A big thank you to all lecturers and participants for their engagement—we look forward to seeing you at the live seminars!
The seminar is organized by the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb, in collaboration with the Croatian HUB for Regenerative Agriculture, operating under the Eko Vojakovac Association (Croatian Regenerative Agriculture Center – CRAC, under the Savory Institute). It is co-financed by the European Union, the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund, and the Office for NGOs of the Government of the Republic of Croatia through the LIFE for Mauremys project.