A unique location set the stage for the extraordinary Regenerate Europe conference at Eco Campus “Krka” in Puljani, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees who arrived on a sunny morning. Over two days, a diverse group of scientists, entrepreneurs, farmers, chefs, project implementation experts, ecologists, students, and individuals interested in regeneration came together to expand their horizons and champion the values of environmental protection, advocating for improved lives in harmony with nature.
The conference, jointly organized by Aspira University of Applied Sciences and Terra Meera for the second consecutive year, attracted experts from around the globe. Co-founder and internationally renowned professor Irena Ateljević, who returned to Croatia from New Zealand twelve years ago with a unique vision to apply her expertise for the benefit of her homeland, inaugurated the event.
“We derive our life from the earth we inhabit. For generations, we have lived off this land, and now we are causing significant harm to it,” highlighted Dr. Irena Ateljević. “This realization drove me to return to my roots and seek the best methods to regenerate our land sustainably, blending tradition with modernity.”
Marko Jelić, Prefect of Šibenik-Knin County, addressed the audience, skillfully intertwining nature with human activity. “We are situated in the most beautiful part of the world’s most beautiful country—Croatia. Everything here is interconnected, from people to nature. Natural laws are entwined with evolution, and it is up to us to embody the belief that each individual can change the world through their actions. This is the only way we can achieve meaningful progress,” Prefect Jelić enthused.
The Krka National Park served as an ideal backdrop for the “Regenerate Europe” conference. Nela Slavica, the Park’s director, extended warm wishes to attendees, inviting them to savor the park’s beauty during their stay.
Dean Alen Jerkunica highlighted the significance of regeneration through the conference and academic programs, passing down essential principles to future generations of students. “Regenerativeness should be our aim—it tackles the very root of unsustainability. Though we have a lengthy journey ahead, it is the only one worth undertaking. Together, we can attain our shared objectives,” emphasized Dean Jerkunica.
Among the distinguished speakers was a Dutch professor and writer Arjen Wals, affiliated with UNESCO, advocating for knowledge dissemination on multifarious issues. “As the only species on Earth with the greatest influence, we bear the responsibility to leverage our power for positive change. We must harness this influence to regenerate the earth, deploying technology judiciously to avoid its dominance in our lives,” emphasized Wals during his address.
Beyond keynote speeches, participants engaged in discussions, attended boundary-pushing lectures, and collaborated with peers. The conference aimed to acquaint attendees with facets of Krka National Park and introduce them to the unique concept of integrating regenerative tourism, authentic gastronomy, and local food production, as exemplified by chef Mate Sučić of Campanelo tavern.
Over two days, prominent figures in European and Croatian regeneration shared their insights, including young regenerative farmers Sheila Darmos and Yanniek Schoonhoven, leadership studies professor Nilima Bhat from Mexico, sustainability educator Catarina Soares, advocate of regenerative agriculture Gabrielle Kalkwijk, leadership trainer Marjolein Nagel, natural cosmetics brand founder Brankica Borović, public policy advisor Simon Kraemer, ethics and climate change expert Luis Ricardo Fernández Carril, wine and carob producer Mato Goravica, Climate farmers organization founder Ivo Degn, biologist and agroecologist Roman Ozimec, and Eupolis Group founder Ranko Milić.
In addition, Wool Lab by Mirjana, Fitolikarie, and Viktoria Natural Cosmetics showcased products aligned with regenerative principles.
Empowered by fresh insights and successful regeneration stories, participants departed with renewed motivation and knowledge to implement regenerative practices in their respective environments.