Bio Park Nivo – a story of transformation that has become a model of sustainable land management
Bio Park Nivo in Vrbje near Žalec is one of the finest examples of how a degraded industrial area can be turned into a well‑designed, ecologically oriented, and publicly accessible space. In 2003, a comprehensive rehabilitation project was carried out on the site next to the former factory, transforming former dumping grounds, overgrown plots, and polluted soil into a landscaped park with a strong nature‑conservation character.
From industrial fringe to natural refuge
Before the rehabilitation, the area next to the factory in Vrbje was a typical example of degraded land: abandoned, environmentally burdened, and without a clear purpose. The 2003 restoration involved thorough soil cleaning, removal of waste, and the arrangement of water and green surfaces. The project was designed not only to eliminate the consequences of past land use but also to create a new, long‑term sustainable identity for the space.
Ecological design and emphasis on biodiversity
Bio Park Nivo is conceived as an interwoven system of natural habitats that promote biodiversity. The area includes:
- wetland zones attracting amphibians and birds,
- meadow and shrub habitats planted with native species,
- educational trails guiding visitors through different ecosystems,
- water features that improve the microclimate and provide habitats for numerous organisms.
Thanks to thoughtful planting and a nature‑friendly approach, the park has become a refuge for many animal species and a pleasant place for walking, nature observation, and relaxation.
A link between industry and nature
A distinctive feature of Bio Park Nivo is its location next to an industrial facility. Instead of maintaining a conflict between industry and nature, the project demonstrates that a harmonious coexistence is possible. The park acts as a green buffer that softens the visual impact of the factory while serving as an example of how companies can contribute to improving the local environment.
A space for visitors, education, and experience
Bio Park Nivo is not a closed research area but an open landscape park intended for the local community and visitors from elsewhere. Educational paths, information boards, and maintained walking routes allow visitors to learn about natural processes, environmental restoration, and the importance of sustainable land management. The park has also become a popular spot for recreation, photography, and school field trips.
A symbol of sustainable transformation
The rehabilitation of the degraded area in Vrbje and the creation of Bio Park Nivo represent an important example of how local communities and companies can improve the quality of space through thoughtful interventions. The park is not only an aesthetic enhancement but also a symbol of responsible environmental stewardship, showing that even heavily burdened areas can be returned to nature and people.