LET US PRESERVE OUR NATURAL GEMS AND WILD PLANTS

Every year on March 3, the world marks World Wildlife Day, dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of wild species of flora and fauna that inhabit diverse ecosystems — the natural habitats essential for their survival.

PHOTO: NP Kozara

However, many of these habitats are increasingly threatened by human activities, which negatively impact wildlife and put numerous species at risk of extinction.

This year’s theme, “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Sustaining Health, Heritage and Livelihoods,” highlights the crucial role plants play in human health, ecosystem protection, and the sustainability of local communities.

Medicinal and aromatic plants are deeply embedded in everyday life — from kitchens to pharmacies. Their use is as old as humanity itself. Throughout history, people have relied on plants for healing, nutrition, and cosmetic purposes, and they continue to do so today.

In order to continue enjoying the benefits and beauty that nature provides, responsible behavior toward natural resources is essential to ensure that wild species survive for future generations.

The area of Kozara National Park is home to a large number of medicinal plants, including hare’s foot, ground pine, smoke tree, St. John’s wort, mallow, branched centaury, lungwort, woundwort, plantain, and many others.

Around 30 rare and endangered plant species have also been recorded in the park, such as white helleborine, holly, black cyclamen, wild lily, lily of the valley, early purple orchid, butcher’s broom, bird vetch, yew, large pink, and snowdrop.

“To preserve our wild species, it is essential to respect the rules of conduct in nature — do not move outside marked trails, avoid using motor vehicles on meadow surfaces, and exercise extreme caution when lighting fires,” representatives of Nacionalni park Kozara reminded visitors.

Protecting wild plants and their habitats is not only an environmental responsibility, but also a commitment to safeguarding natural heritage and biodiversity for generations to come.