“Protection of Natural Resources and Biodiversity” – twin-city meeting and conference
Protection of natural resources and biodiversity – Conference and professional meeting
Zrenjanin (Nagybecskerek), Serbia, September 26-27, 2025.
The town twinning meeting and conference titled “Protection of natural resources and biodiversity” took place in the city of Zrenjanin (Nagybecskerek), generating significant professional interest and resulting in extensive domestic and international participation. The event focused on the preservation of natural resources, the protection of biodiversity, and strategies for sustainability and the green transition.
The conference presentations provided a comprehensive insight into local and international initiatives, best practices, as well as scientific, policy-based, and practical responses to environmental challenges. The meeting held particular significance as it provided an opportunity for experts, decision-makers, civil organizations, and representatives of local communities to exchange experiences and engage in collective thinking for a more livable and sustainable future.
Conservation strategies and ecotourism opportunities
In his presentation, Bojan Radulov outlined the protected natural values of the Zrenjanin area, highlighting the institutional framework for nature conservation measures and the role of the "Rezervati prirode Zrenjanina" organization. He presented in detail the city's three areas of outstanding importance: the Ritovi Donjeg Potisja Special Nature Reserve, the complex ecosystem of Carska Bara, and the Rusanda Nature Park.
The presentation pointed out the rich flora and fauna of these areas—ranging from aquatic plants and fish species to protected birds and mammals—as well as the potential inherent in ecotourism, such as birdwatching, water tours, photo safaris, and nature hiking programs. The city of Zrenjanin treats the protection of biodiversity and the development of sustainable tourism as long-term strategic priorities.
In her presentation titled “Sustainable Cities and Biodiversity Protection,” Ana Seke outlined Serbia's sustainability measures related to EU Green Programs. She presented projects aimed at restoring wetlands and protected areas, with a particular focus on the control of invasive species and the preservation of biological diversity. She highlighted urban programs involving Zrenjanin, Belgrade, and Novi Sad, which are based on the development of green infrastructure, support for the circular economy, and the introduction of low-carbon solutions. The presentation emphasized the role of community participation and nature-based solutions in strengthening resilience to climate change.
Vasilija Stanić presented the Serbian experiences of European territorial cooperation programs, highlighting projects aimed at environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. Concrete examples included the Hungarian–Serbian partnership project for the protection of Pannonian grasslands and bird species, the Romanian–Serbian “Guardians of Water” program, and the Croatian–Serbian BIOSOL and BIOSOL+ initiatives. The presentation shed light on the fact that these programs not only yield environmental results but also strengthen interregional cooperation and social awareness.
Innovation and community initiatives
Edi Darusi és a Need for Green csapata a „Lélegző buszmegállók” projektet mutatta be, amely zöldtetők kialakításával kívánja javítani a városi biodiverzitást és levegőminőséget. A növények alkalmazása fenntartható és alacsony karbantartási igényű megoldást kínál. A projekt egyszerre szolgálja a környezetvédelmet, az esztétikai értékteremtést és a közösségi szemléletformálást.
Tamás Baranyai, in his presentation, analyzed the correlations between biodiversity and sustainability, emphasizing the significance of ecosystem services—such as clean air, water, soil fertility, and pollination. He presented the most critical threats and potential responses, including species protection, genetic monitoring, and ecosystem restoration.
Tamás Szilágyi examined the role of artificial intelligence in biodiversity protection, highlighting the technological advantages and ethical dilemmas of AI. He pointed out that technological solutions can only be truly effective when applied within democratic and participatory frameworks.
Edit Hajnal analyzed the relationship between natural resources, biodiversity, and mental well-being, presenting the concept of "forest consciousness" and the practical application of Attention Restoration Theory.
Péter Jelenfi outlined an integrated sustainability approach to natural and cultural heritage, emphasizing the significance of the frameworks offered by the European Green Deal and the New European Bauhaus.
Urban best practices
Csilla Burista ismertette Csíkszereda biodiverzitás-védelmi intézkedéseit, különös tekintettel a zöldterületek fejlesztésére és a közösségi programokra.
Dr. Adrienn Szászné Várkonyi presented the green space development strategies of Gyula, including the protection of Natura 2000 areas, community tree-planting programs, and the creation of biodiverse perennial beds.
Zsolt Tömő presented the integration of sustainability and prevention into higher education through the example of Gál Ferenc University.
Mihajlo Manigodić emphasized the role of youth in the sustainable transition, presenting youth programs and community initiatives in Zrenjanin.
Aliz Komoróczki presented the sustainable tourism programs of Gyula, highlighting the city development model based on health, physical activity, and culture.
The conference provided a comprehensive overview of the current challenges and opportunities in the protection of natural resources and biodiversity. The event strengthened international professional cooperation, facilitated knowledge sharing, and contributed to deepening the integrated approach to sustainable urban development strategies. The event successfully served the project's objectives, laying the groundwork for further professional collaboration and the development of joint sustainability initiatives among the partner municipalities.
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