Croatia’s first urban “Crošnjica” forest is planted

(Photo:  Igor Pavlović)

Zaprešić has become home to Croatia’s first urban “Crošnjica” – a mini forest made up of 24 native plant species, planted by 150 volunteers to mark the town’s 30th anniversary.

The initiative, led by the Croatian Scout Association and creative agency HEARTH, brought together pupils, teachers, local volunteers and corporate partners for an inspiring environmental project in the courtyard of Ljudevit Gaj Primary School.

Children from the school took part enthusiastically, helping plant the diverse vegetation that now forms the heart of the new green space.

A forest on a small scale

The Zaprešić Crošnjica covers around 200 square metres and contains 196 seedlings representing 24 different plant species – from oak, maple and ash trees to shrubs such as currant, raspberry, blueberry and aronia.

(Photo:  Igor Pavlović)

Adults and pupils worked side by side, planting the vegetation and laying sawdust to protect the young plants from frost and weeds. Small gravel paths were then added, allowing visitors to explore the space and learn about the various plants, each marked with signs in Croatian and Latin.

Inspired by the Japanese Miyawaki method

The Crošnjica was planted using the Miyawaki method, a Japanese approach that recreates natural forests by planting multiple layers of vegetation at once. This technique promotes fast growth, high biodiversity and long-term self-sustainability with minimal maintenance.

(Photo:  Igor Pavlović)

Such mini forests are designed to reduce urban heat islands, improve air quality, and support local biodiversity by attracting various plant and animal species. They also help reduce noise and capture dust particles, contributing to a healthier urban environment.

(Photo:  Igor Pavlović)

A classroom in nature

For Ljudevit Gaj pupils, the project is not only an environmental improvement but also an educational opportunity.

(Photo:  Igor Pavlović)

“We’re all proud that our school was chosen for this project. Our pupils will study the plants and observe how the forest grows and develops. We believe this experience will inspire a stronger connection with nature,” said Tomislav Cerinski, the school’s headmaster.

(Photo:  Igor Pavlović)

Community effort and corporate support

The planting was supported by Atlantic Grupa, whose 30 volunteers took part in the event as part of the company’s “Day of Values” initiative.

(Photo:  Igor Pavlović)

(Photo:  Igor Pavlović)

“Through this project, we continue to promote volunteering, community spirit and care for the environment. It also aligns with our ESG goals, proving that sustainability and social responsibility are integral to business,” said Majda Berislavić, Atlantic Grupa’s Head of Learning and Development.

(Photo:  Igor Pavlović)

The City of Zaprešić also provided support through its communal services. Deputy Mayor Željko Barun praised the initiative, expressing hope that many more Crošnjicas will be planted across the city in the years ahead.

(Photo:  Igor Pavlović)

A growing green movement

Crošnjica is a project developed by the Croatian Scout Association and HEARTH, the first regional agency dedicated to socially responsible projects. The two have already launched several award-winning initiatives, including Boranka, CO2mpensating by Planting, and Šumoborci.

(Photo:  Igor Pavlović)

Following the success of the pilot project earlier this year in Kamanje, the team now plans to expand Crošnjica across Croatia and is inviting local councils, schools and companies to join the initiative.