The launch of a public call open to all Croatian cities marks the beginning of a new edition of the From Source to Sea environmental initiative, jointly implemented by Coca-Cola, Konzum, Jutarnji list and the Association of Cities in the Republic of Croatia. The project focuses on encouraging urban afforestation - the planting of trees in city areas - with the aim of reducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and mitigating rising air temperatures. At the same time, the initiative promotes responsible waste disposal and raises awareness of the importance of protecting and preserving Croatia’s water resources.
This year’s edition of From Source to Sea will be carried out in several phases, the first of which begins with the publication of the public call, open until 31 March. The call is available on Coca-Cola’s website.
All cities wishing to afforest designated areas within their communities are eligible to apply. Participating cities are required to organise a one-day clean-up action between 10 April and 22 June, in cooperation with local NGOs and volunteers. Applications will be evaluated based on the number of volunteers engaged and the volume of waste collected. The three most successful cities will share a total prize fund of EUR 45,000, to be invested in the purchase of tree seedlings for urban planting projects. In agreement with the winning cities, tree-planting activities will take place between October and December, and special plaques will be awarded in recognition of their achievement.
This year’s edition also introduces a new element. One of the registered cities will be awarded EUR 10,000 for the installation of a public drinking fountain at a location of its choice. This support is not linked to waste collection performance, meaning all cities may apply for this funding regardless of participation in other segments of the competition. The aim of this component is to make drinking water accessible to as many citizens as possible, highlight the importance of preserving Croatia’s rich water resources, and contribute to public health and the improved use of urban spaces.
“Once again, the From Source to Sea project confirms the importance of strong partnerships and the active involvement of local communities in achieving tangible progress in environmental protection and water conservation. We are extremely proud that last year’s edition brought together 32 cities and more than 2,200 volunteers, clearly demonstrating the project’s relevance and social value. We invite all Croatian cities to join this year’s edition so that, together, we can contribute to creating a cleaner, greener and more sustainable environment for present and future generations,” said Igor Zgrabljić, Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Coca-Cola HBC Adria.
Coca-Cola launched the From Source to Sea project in Croatia in 2018, in cooperation with government institutions and civil society organisations. Jutarnji list joined as a partner five years ago, followed by Konzum in 2022, and subsequently the Association of Cities in the Republic of Croatia. The project is supported by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transition and the Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology at the University of Zagreb. Since its launch, 134 packaging waste collection actions have been organised, involving nearly 12,000 volunteers. A total of 932 tons of waste have been collected - the equivalent of filling 108 trucks.
More information is available on Coca-Cola’s website and in the digital edition of Jutarnji list.