Minister Šabani and REZ Director Sarajlić Discuss EU Funds for Biodiversity Protection and Restoration

(Patria) - Minister of Spatial Planning, Traffic, and Communications and Environmental Protection of Zenica-Doboj Canton (ZDK) Adnan Šabani, along with his associates, held a meeting today with the Director of the Regional Development Agency for the Central BiH Region (REZ) Ismet Sarajlić.

Sarajlić and project manager Marela Zdenac informed the minister about the projects the REZ Agency is working on to stimulate economic development, improve competitiveness, and enhance the standard of living.

The focus of the meeting was on the activities of the Ministry of Spatial Planning, Traffic, and Communications and Environmental Protection of ZDK and the ZDK Government in improving environmental protection.

- We follow with particular satisfaction the quality projects that the Ministry has been implementing over the past two years and which are yielding results on the ground. Minister Šabani and the Government have recognized the importance of cooperation with international organizations and the Federal Ministry of Environment and Tourism in order to improve resources in ZDK.

The Adriatic-Ionian Transnational Cooperation Programme 2021–2027 is implementing the project "Promoting Biomimicry-Inspired Habitat Design Solutions for Biodiversity Protection and Restoration," which can be of great benefit to ZDK, considering the establishment of the Public Institution for the Management of Protected Natural Areas - stated Sarajlić.

Support for a greener and more climate-resilient Adriatic-Ionian region, i.e., the preservation and protection of the environment, is a project where Minister Šabani and the ZDK Government see a new opportunity for additional environmental protection and the development of tourism potential.

- The "BIOMIMICRY" project addresses biodiversity loss and climate risks in the Adriatic-Ionian region. Sustainable landscapes, water management, and habitat restoration are the project's goals, aiming to find effective and innovative solutions through habitat research in this region that contribute to biodiversity protection and restoration.

The developed solutions and instruments will help authorities at the local, regional, and national levels to promote the use of biomimicry-inspired principles in development processes and urban planning.

The Zenica-Doboj Canton does not miss opportunities for further development, so through the Public Institution, we will be able to protect the riches of Tajana, Zvijezda, and other natural beauties abundant in this part of our homeland even more effectively - said Šabani.

The European Union is financing this project with 1.3 million euros.