Plitvice Lakes National Park holder of ZelEn certificate: "Zero waste" strategy as an imperative

Plitvice Lakes National Park (NP PJ) as a socially responsible institution in all aspects takes special care of environmental protection and renewable energy sources.

Thus, in 2022, NP PJ is also the holder ZelEn certificate which confirms that 100% of the electricity used is obtained from renewable sources. In this way, the Plitvice Lakes National Park procures electricity from certified hydropower plants, with special attention paid to evidence of the harmless impact of power plants on the environment as well as the disposal of hazardous waste.

The ZelEn product is intended exclusively for HEP Opskrba customers who have decided to be socially responsible in their business, who care about the environment and the use of energy from renewable sources, and thus make development and life sustainable.

ZelEn is a unique, ecological, modern and authentic product that guarantees that all the energy it receives through the ZelEn product is obtained exclusively from renewable sources, and the use of the ZelEn - Nature Friend trademark adds value to this story.

SUSTAINABLE DISPOSAL OF FOOD RESIDUES IN HOTEL JEZERO

Food waste is a big challenge today. Due to its huge amount, but also the use of soil, water and energy for the purpose of producing excessive amounts of food, our footprint on the planet is extremely large, and analyzes indicate that as much as 70% of biodiversity is lost by deforestation to agricultural land.

Unfortunately, Croatia does not lag behind global data. We throw away about 400.000 tonnes of food a year, contributing to European figures of around a staggering 90 million tonnes. Natural resources are used for the production, distribution and storage of food.

The World Conservation Organization (WWF) has recognized food waste as one of the most important programs of its work, with the aim of reducing the pressure that humanity puts on our planet. of food.

"As a UNESCO-protected national park, the importance of impact on nature conservation and raising awareness of waste reduction is an important determinant of our activities. As we manage many catering and accommodation facilities, we are faced with the great challenge of reducing environmental impact. the activities and projects we started with, we strive for a "zero waste" strategy. " allegations from the Plitvice Lakes National Park. 

With the introduction of biodegradable packaging in 2015, the process of removing plastic from the entire business began, all generated waste in the hotel is separated, and bio waste is used for the production of bio fuel and animal feed. Promotional materials are printed on eco paper, food is procured through green procurement and cooperation with WWF-om in this project represents the next step of NP PJ in expanding responsible business.

"Reducing waste is one of the goals of responsible business, but also to raise awareness of how important it is to pay attention to seemingly small things - from choosing bio packaging to plastic to paying attention to leaving excess food on the plate. Proper internal communication, communication with guests in our hotels through informative and educational messages and excellent cooperation with WWF on this commendable project, we have excellent results and we are proud that our largest hotel Jezero was among the first hotels in Croatia with this project. " they add from the Plitvice Lakes National Park. 

USE OF LOWER ENERGY CONSUMABLING LIGHT AND FAVORABLE FOR THE FAUNA

Plitvice Lakes National Park in 2018 introduced new lighting that uses LED technology that consumes up to 50% less electricity and is more favorable for wildlife because the light is not scattered in all directions but is directed only to the narrower area around the path.

The lighting is also programmed to work at 40% intensity for most of the night when there is no need for intense light. "It is extremely important to us that the flora and fauna feel the presence of man and his technologies as little as possible, so this project was of great importance." conclude from the Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Photo: Plitvice Lakes National Park