In the heart of the Eastern Veneto region, biodiversity manifests itself in a surprising variety of ecosystems, each with its own peculiarities and a crucial role in environmental conservation.
With the Interreg ENGREEN 2 project, funded by the INTERREG Italy and Slovenia programme, VEGAL is working to protect and enhance these ecosystems, promoting environmental awareness through educational experiences that make biodiversity accessible to all. One of the keys to biodiversity is the variety of plant species that form the basis of ecosystems.
An emblematic example is the Portogruaro Botanical Garden, a recently restored green oasis where more than 400 plants and shrubs of 80 different species can be observed. This garden not only provides a refuge for numerous pollinating insects, but also represents a place of learning in an urban context. During a dedicated workshop, guests of the residence for people with disabilities in Fossalta di Portogruaro explored the garden, participating in a biodiversity treasure hunt. Through playful and sensorial activities, they discovered the importance of plants in maintaining natural balances and supporting the local fauna together with volunteers from the ‘Friends of the Portogruaro Botanical Garden’ Association.
The Bosco delle Lame di Concordia is another extraordinary example of how complex ecosystems can host a wide range of species. This wood, characterised by ponds, reed beds and wetlands, is an ideal habitat for birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. During a workshop, led by nature guide Giulia Carozzani and involving around 40 children from the Sindacale Grest in Concordia Sagittaria, the participants discovered how each element of the forest is interconnected. By observing the life inside the ponds and listening to bird calls, the children learnt to recognise the species present and understand the importance of preserving these environments to ensure the survival of the creatures that live there. Creative activities such as ‘Talking Trees’ further stimulated their imagination, showing how nature can inspire human creativity.
The Prati delle Pars in Teglio Veneto is a perfect example of how history and biodiversity can intertwine. This area, once characterised by marshes, has been transformed over the centuries into grasslands and lowland forests, becoming today a mosaic of protected habitats. During a lesson in nature, the adult participants explored these meadows, guided by naturalist Chiara Baradello and Antonio Trevisan, a member of the Prati delle Pars Association. It was explained how the local flora, including species such as hazelnut, primroses, alder and wild linden, is not only a refuge for numerous species of insects and small animals, but also a living link to the area's ancient history. The presence of an apiary in the area is a further example of how sustainable management can contribute to maintaining the ecological balance, supporting biodiversity and protecting key species such as bees.
The ENGREEN 2 project demonstrates that biodiversity is not just a concept reserved for specialists, but a heritage within everyone's reach. Through direct experiences, such as the workshops at the Portogruaro Botanical Garden, Bosco delle Lame and Prati delle Pars, people of all ages and abilities were able to connect with nature and understand the importance of its conservation.
These places, often little explored but of great value, remind us how essential it is to protect local ecosystems to ensure a sustainable future. In a world where biodiversity is increasingly under threat, initiatives such as those of the ENGREEN 2 project play a key role in promoting awareness and commitment to protecting our environment.
Discovering and enhancing the natural treasures of the Eastern Veneto is the first step in ensuring that these treasures are preserved for future generations.
