My hometown - Exploring the city and its rural area

Taking joint action for the protection and promotion of the European Green Belt

The aim of the European Green Belt Days celebration was to bring teachers and students together to recognise the importance of the Ulqin area as part of the European Green Belt. The main aim was for the students to get to know their hometown and to pass on the newly acquired knowledge about the great natural and cultural treasures of the region that should be protected.

Background & Location

The celebration of the European Green Belt Days was organised in Ulcinj in cooperation with the Women's Association "Local Quality". This location was suitable because it is part of the European Green Belt and is rich in amazing natural places, biodiversity, tradition and culture. What was really special this time was the cooperation with all primary schools in Ulcinj and their willingness and readiness to actively participate in all project activities.

Objective 

The aim of the event was to promote Ulcinj and its rural area as part of the European Green Belt and to raise awareness among teachers about the European Green Belt Initiative and its importance. As teachers work with children from a very young age, they are a valuable resource and ally in the protection and promotion of the area as part of the European Green Belt. Helping primary school children (6-10 years old) to become familiar with the natural resources of their community and its rich biodiversity means helping them to develop a deeper affection for their hometown, the countryside, environmental protection and green jobs in the future.

These activities are closely linked to the European Green Belt Initiative and its vision, as they promote the natural-cultural values of the area. 

Approach & Results 

Elementary school teachers in Ulcinj were trained on the European Green Belt Initiative to educate young students. Two educational picnics—at Ulcinj Salina and Valdanos olive grove—explored local history and nature. Teachers received a unique illustrated textbook, sparking excitement among students eager to explore their town's heritage. After positive feedback from parents and teachers, the textbook has been integrated into the curriculum, supporting trips and activities that promote Ulcinj's cultural and natural treasures. This initiative has fostered strong local support for protecting the European Green Belt in Ulcinj.

The educational/coloring book “My hometown – Exploring the city and its rural area” was designed as a combination of colouring pages and short information about the most specific places in the Ulcinj area, such as Ulcinj Salina, the Valdanos olive grove, the Buna River, Lake Shas, animals and plants, such as flamingos and storks, pomegranates and olives, etc. The textbook was printed 340 times, partly supported by the Secretariat for Agriculture, Rural Development and Ecology of the Municipality of Ulcinj, and it was distributed to all teachers and all pupils of the fourth grade.

Photo gallery of the European Green Belt Days celebration