Members of the FMTU Eco Committee, together with students, took part in an educational hiking trip in the area of Učka Nature Park and visited the Stražica–Sapaćica Land Art Trail. The hike was organized to mark World Biodiversity Day, celebrated on 22 May, with the aim of raising awareness of the importance of preserving natural diversity and fostering a responsible attitude towards the environment.
This circular, educational, and artistically designed trail connects the natural features of Učka and Ćićarija with land art elements integrated into the landscape. During the walk, participants had the opportunity to discover the richness of plant life, discuss the importance of preserving natural habitats, and learn more about proper and responsible behaviour in a protected area.
Special attention was given to recognizing hiking trail markers, distinguishing between edible and non-edible plant species, and emphasizing the importance of the rule that nature should be observed and photographed, but not disturbed by picking plants or leaving traces in the environment.
The Stražica–Sapaćica Land Art Trail is approximately 6.5 kilometres long and is known as an accessible trail suitable for a pleasant walk. Along with the natural beauty of forests, meadows, and surrounding pastures, the trail introduces visitors to the idea of the connection between people and nature through artistic interventions in the landscape. It was precisely this combination of education, recreation, and art that enabled the members of the Eco Committee to reflect directly on sustainability, environmental protection, and responsible time spent in nature.
During the trip, participants also became acquainted with plant species characteristic of this area, including wild garlic and pink rockrose, and discussed the specific features of the Mediterranean climate and its influence on local vegetation. The trip ended at the foot of the Banine waterfall, where the students rounded off a day spent learning, socializing, and enjoying the fresh air.
Activities such as this contribute to strengthening students’ environmental awareness and encourage a responsible attitude towards natural heritage. The time spent on Učka offered participants an opportunity to take a break from their daily obligations, while also gaining a better understanding of the importance of biodiversity conservation, protected areas, sustainable development, and the value of the nature that surrounds us.
