After nearly a decade since its inception in 2009, a visionary project finds new life in 2021, driven by the collaborative efforts of parliamentary members, local leaders, and regional administrators. This initiative, spearheaded by a collective will to safeguard Croatia's natural heritage, is gaining momentum under the stewardship of the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development.

With a focused commitment to preserving the pristine landscapes of Ivanščica, Strahinjčica, Maceljska gora, and Ravna gora, the Ministry is diligently advancing efforts towards the establishment of a nature park in the heart of Croatian Zagorje. This endeavour, born from a fusion of environmental consciousness and strategic planning, is poised to redefine the region's ecological future.

The recent collaborative strides made with the Krapina-Zagorje and Varaždin counties underscore a unified vision for the protection and sustainable management of over 31,000 hectares of natural terrain. Through inclusive consultations with stakeholders from 14 municipalities, the Ministry aims to cultivate a shared understanding of the transformative potential inherent in the nature park designation.

Beyond its ecological significance, the proposed nature park represents a multifaceted opportunity to harness the intrinsic value of Croatia's Zagorje region. By harmonizing natural preservation with cultural heritage, this initiative envisages a paradigm shift in regional development, fostering a symbiotic relationship between environmental stewardship and economic prosperity.

Underpinning this transformative journey is the establishment of a dedicated public institution tasked with overseeing the park's management and development. By fostering collaboration, facilitating community engagement, and championing sustainable practices, this institution is poised to catalyse positive socio-economic outcomes while safeguarding the region's ecological integrity.