Jems
The strategic RETFOR project, valued at €2.8 million and co-financed by the European Union under the Interreg IPA Cross-border Cooperation Programme Croatia–Serbia 2021–2027 held a kick-off conference on 10th April 2025 at the Science and Technology Park in Novi Sad.
Running from 1 November 2024 to 31 October 2027, RETFOR project aims to enhance climate resilience and preserve biodiversity in the Spačva–Bosut Basin, home to one of Europe’s largest continuous pedunculate oak forests. The project will strengthen cross-border collaboration between Croatia and Serbia to protect this vital ecosystem.
Led by Croatian Forests Ltd., project partners include Vojvodina šume, Croatian Waters, Vode Vojvodine, the Competence Centre Ltd. for R&D in Vinkovci, and the Fund for European Affairs and Development of Autonomous Province of Vojvodina.
At the event, Mr Konstantinos Soupilas from the EU Delegation in Belgrade emphasized the role of the Interreg programme in addressing joint challenges and strengthening regional cooperation, especially in tackling climate change.
Project representatives highlighted the significance of cross-sectoral cooperation in responding to growing environmental threats. Mr Igor Fazekaš of Croatian Forests Ltd. stressed the importance of developing an action plan for climate-resilient forestry. Mr Roland Kokai of Vojvodina šume noted the broader ecological impact of the project, while Mr Ivan Ambroš of the Competence Centre underscored forests’ crucial role in global oxygen production and ecosystem stability.
Through activities such as forest revitalization, groundwater monitoring and infrastructure improvements, new water management initiatives, water structure restoration, and the establishment of a Climate Change Monitoring Centre, RETFOR is set to provide lasting environmental benefits for the region and future generations.
