Zagreb City, Croatia
This Living Lab lies within the heart of Croatia. Zagreb is a city blending historical charm with contemporary flair.
About this living lab
As visitors wander on the cobblestone streets, they can engage not only with architectural marvels and bustling city life but also with its urban forests. Our Living Lab in the Zagreb city region spans over 1,250 hectares. Managed by Croatian Forests Ltd, these green spaces play a pivotal role in the ecological, recreational, and cultural fabric of the city
Challenges
However, Zagreb’s urban forests also face significant challenges. Designated as one of the Natura 2000 areas, meticulous conservation efforts are required to keep a balance between conservation objectives and urban development requirements. Additionally, the increasing demand for recreational spaces from society adds to the growing pressure brought by visitors.
Area
1,250 ha
Guiding Management Principle
Provision of ecosystem services, protection of rare species based on Natura 2000 principle, wood production,
Current Management
Close to nature forestry
Management challenges
Natura 2000, pressure from visitors, societal demands
News
TRANSFORMIT project and stakeholder meeting in Prague: advancing IFM through dialogue and practice
From 22–24 September 2025, our 2nd TRANSFORMIT project meeting brought…
“Deadwood is for the bugs”
How Zagreb’s urban and protected woodlands inspire the future of…
Balancing forestry and biodiversity conservation: “It’s important to showcase how things can work”
“We have the need to improve biodiversity on every scale”,…