Green Bond
Revitalization of Degraded Post Coal Mining Land into a Sustainable Green Bond
The Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje transforms degraded post-mining land into a vibrant, sustainable green corridor, linking municipalities Trbovlje and Hrastnik. This project restores nature, promotes community well-being, and showcases non-toxic, circular solutions for urban spaces. By reviving industrial heritage and reconnecting people with nature, it sets a new standard for Just Transition, creating a healthier, inclusive, and climate-resilient environment.
Slovenia
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Prototype level
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
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129: Trbovlje (SI)
"Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje transforms degraded post-mining land into a thriving green corridor, reconnecting Trbovlje and Hrastnik. This nature-based urban renewal project aligns with New European Bauhaus (NEB) principles—sustainability, inclusion, and aesthetics—and supports Just Transition by repurposing industrial landscapes into community-driven spaces.
Overall Aim
The project restores ecological balance, improves urban resilience, and fosters social inclusion through biophilic design, circular economy principles, and participatory planning. It creates green infrastructure, artistic interventions, and cultural programs, strengthening the connection between people, nature, and heritage.
Target Groups
Local residents (families, seniors, youth, vulnerable groups).
Community organizations (NGOs, social enterprises, schools, libraries).
Urban planners & sustainability experts (municipalities, researchers).
Artists & creatives (Forma Viva sculptors, musicians, heritage experts).
Visitors & tourists seeking nature-based experiences.
Specific Objectives
Revitalize post-mining land, restoring biodiversity and ecosystems.
Create inclusive spaces, involving VDC participants in gardening, pop-up cafés, and workshops.
Expand green infrastructure, improving accessibility and recreation.
Celebrate cultural heritage, hosting Speakers’ Corner, concerts, and film screenings.
Promote sustainability, engaging seniors and schools in gardening and self-sufficiency activities.
Expected Outcomes
9.85 ha of revitalized land, with 4.74 ha actively transformed.
New biodiversity zones, integrating native plants and water features.
Accessible gathering spaces, such as reading areas, music zones, and gardens.
Regular community programming, including education and cultural events.
A scalable model, adaptable to other post-industrial regions."
Overall Aim
The project restores ecological balance, improves urban resilience, and fosters social inclusion through biophilic design, circular economy principles, and participatory planning. It creates green infrastructure, artistic interventions, and cultural programs, strengthening the connection between people, nature, and heritage.
Target Groups
Local residents (families, seniors, youth, vulnerable groups).
Community organizations (NGOs, social enterprises, schools, libraries).
Urban planners & sustainability experts (municipalities, researchers).
Artists & creatives (Forma Viva sculptors, musicians, heritage experts).
Visitors & tourists seeking nature-based experiences.
Specific Objectives
Revitalize post-mining land, restoring biodiversity and ecosystems.
Create inclusive spaces, involving VDC participants in gardening, pop-up cafés, and workshops.
Expand green infrastructure, improving accessibility and recreation.
Celebrate cultural heritage, hosting Speakers’ Corner, concerts, and film screenings.
Promote sustainability, engaging seniors and schools in gardening and self-sufficiency activities.
Expected Outcomes
9.85 ha of revitalized land, with 4.74 ha actively transformed.
New biodiversity zones, integrating native plants and water features.
Accessible gathering spaces, such as reading areas, music zones, and gardens.
Regular community programming, including education and cultural events.
A scalable model, adaptable to other post-industrial regions."
Regenerative design
Just Transition
Biodiversity
Inclusion
Circular Economy
"The Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje prioritizes environmental sustainability, transforming a degraded post-mining landscape into a resilient, biodiverse, and climate-adaptive green corridor. By implementing bio based solutions, circular design, and non toxic materials, the project strengthens local climate resilience, air and water quality, and urban sustainability.
Key sustainability features include:
- Rainwater collection & sustainable water use – The park incorporates rainwater harvesting systems, which reduce runoff, enhance groundwater recharge, and irrigate newly planted greenery.
- Biodiversity enhancement & microclimate improvement – Planting native species supports pollinators, increases carbon sequestration, and reduces the heat island effect, improving overall microclimatic conditions.
- Low-carbon urban mobility – The project integrates accessible pedestrian and cycling paths, linking Trbovlje and Hrastnik while improving connectivity to public transportation, reducing reliance on cars.
- Improved air and water quality – The green corridor filters pollutants, mitigates urban heat, and enhances local ecosystem services, contributing to healthier urban living conditions.
- Circular economy & material reuse – Locally sourced stone, wood, and metal, along with recycled urban furniture, reduce the project’s environmental impact and demonstrate sustainable material use.
- Climate adaptation & carbon footprint reduction – The green spaces absorb CO₂ emissions, support soil regeneration, and prevent erosion, addressing climate change at a local level.
By demonstrating post industrial land regeneration through green infrastructure, this initiative aligns with Just Transition principles and sets a replicable example for sustainable urban renewal. The non-toxic approach ensures long-term environmental benefits, reinforcing the New European Bauhaus vision for a healthier, greener, and more resilient future."
Key sustainability features include:
- Rainwater collection & sustainable water use – The park incorporates rainwater harvesting systems, which reduce runoff, enhance groundwater recharge, and irrigate newly planted greenery.
- Biodiversity enhancement & microclimate improvement – Planting native species supports pollinators, increases carbon sequestration, and reduces the heat island effect, improving overall microclimatic conditions.
- Low-carbon urban mobility – The project integrates accessible pedestrian and cycling paths, linking Trbovlje and Hrastnik while improving connectivity to public transportation, reducing reliance on cars.
- Improved air and water quality – The green corridor filters pollutants, mitigates urban heat, and enhances local ecosystem services, contributing to healthier urban living conditions.
- Circular economy & material reuse – Locally sourced stone, wood, and metal, along with recycled urban furniture, reduce the project’s environmental impact and demonstrate sustainable material use.
- Climate adaptation & carbon footprint reduction – The green spaces absorb CO₂ emissions, support soil regeneration, and prevent erosion, addressing climate change at a local level.
By demonstrating post industrial land regeneration through green infrastructure, this initiative aligns with Just Transition principles and sets a replicable example for sustainable urban renewal. The non-toxic approach ensures long-term environmental benefits, reinforcing the New European Bauhaus vision for a healthier, greener, and more resilient future."
"The Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje merges aesthetics and experience by integrating landscape architecture, artistic storytelling, and material symbolism. Designed to evoke deep emotional connections with the region’s natural and cultural heritage, the project transforms a degraded mining site into a visually striking, inviting, and historically meaningful public space.
Aesthetic and Sensory Design
The space is structured around wood, stone, corten steel, and greenery, ensuring harmony with the surroundings while mimicking nature and its organic forms.
Wood is used in pathways, seating, and shade structures, creating a warm and inviting aesthetic.
Locally sourced stone and sand reinforce regional geological heritage, forming pathways, seating, and land-art elements.
Corten steel, with its evolving patina, symbolizes the mining legacy, connecting history with contemporary design.
Native plants, ponds, and biophilic elements enhance visual appeal, promote biodiversity, and provide a multi-sensory experience through seasonal variation.
Cultural and Historical Symbolism
Entry sculptures reference mining history through the ""Markica"", a miner’s token representing presence underground, now symbolizing resilience and community ties.
Land-art elements, shaped into wildlife figures, reinforce the bond between people, nature, and local identity.
Forma Viva, a rotating outdoor exhibition, will evolve, showcasing local and international artistic interpretations of place and history.
By merging natural materials, industrial heritage, and artistic expression, the Green Bond embodies the New European Bauhaus vision—showcasing how beauty in public spaces can tell stories, foster connections, and improve well-being. This project proves that aesthetics can be functional, emotionally engaging, and ecologically responsible, offering a replicable model for urban renewal that celebrates identity, community, and sustainability."
Aesthetic and Sensory Design
The space is structured around wood, stone, corten steel, and greenery, ensuring harmony with the surroundings while mimicking nature and its organic forms.
Wood is used in pathways, seating, and shade structures, creating a warm and inviting aesthetic.
Locally sourced stone and sand reinforce regional geological heritage, forming pathways, seating, and land-art elements.
Corten steel, with its evolving patina, symbolizes the mining legacy, connecting history with contemporary design.
Native plants, ponds, and biophilic elements enhance visual appeal, promote biodiversity, and provide a multi-sensory experience through seasonal variation.
Cultural and Historical Symbolism
Entry sculptures reference mining history through the ""Markica"", a miner’s token representing presence underground, now symbolizing resilience and community ties.
Land-art elements, shaped into wildlife figures, reinforce the bond between people, nature, and local identity.
Forma Viva, a rotating outdoor exhibition, will evolve, showcasing local and international artistic interpretations of place and history.
By merging natural materials, industrial heritage, and artistic expression, the Green Bond embodies the New European Bauhaus vision—showcasing how beauty in public spaces can tell stories, foster connections, and improve well-being. This project proves that aesthetics can be functional, emotionally engaging, and ecologically responsible, offering a replicable model for urban renewal that celebrates identity, community, and sustainability."
"The Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje is an inclusive, accessible, and community-driven public space, ensuring that all individuals—regardless of age, mobility, or background—can fully benefit. By prioritizing universal access, intergenerational interaction, and active participation, the initiative strengthens social bonds while making green spaces available to all.
Physical & Social Accessibility
Barrier-free paths, seating, and recreational zones accommodate wheelchair users, families, and seniors.
Clear wayfinding, tactile markers, and adaptable resting areas improve usability for individuals with disabilities.
Integration with public transport ensures affordability and accessibility for all visitors.
Education & Awareness
Interpretive signage and learning spaces educate visitors on biodiversity, climate adaptation, and sustainable gardening.
Schools and youth organizations engage in urban gardening, beekeeping, and tree-planting, fostering long-term environmental awareness.
Guided educational walks and awareness campaigns highlight the benefits of green infrastructure and biodiversity.
Social Inclusion & Community Engagement
Multigenerational activities include sports areas, storytelling corners, and outdoor cultural events that strengthen social ties.
Collaboration with NGOs, senior groups, and vulnerable communities ensures broad participation in shaping and using the space.
Community-driven development allows residents to co-create, ensuring the park evolves with local needs.
By prioritizing equity, inclusion, and participatory design, the project embodies the NEB vision for just, people-centered urban renewal. It reduces social isolation, provides accessible green spaces, and fosters shared responsibility for nature and well-being, making it a replicable model for inclusive green transformation in post-industrial regions."
Physical & Social Accessibility
Barrier-free paths, seating, and recreational zones accommodate wheelchair users, families, and seniors.
Clear wayfinding, tactile markers, and adaptable resting areas improve usability for individuals with disabilities.
Integration with public transport ensures affordability and accessibility for all visitors.
Education & Awareness
Interpretive signage and learning spaces educate visitors on biodiversity, climate adaptation, and sustainable gardening.
Schools and youth organizations engage in urban gardening, beekeeping, and tree-planting, fostering long-term environmental awareness.
Guided educational walks and awareness campaigns highlight the benefits of green infrastructure and biodiversity.
Social Inclusion & Community Engagement
Multigenerational activities include sports areas, storytelling corners, and outdoor cultural events that strengthen social ties.
Collaboration with NGOs, senior groups, and vulnerable communities ensures broad participation in shaping and using the space.
Community-driven development allows residents to co-create, ensuring the park evolves with local needs.
By prioritizing equity, inclusion, and participatory design, the project embodies the NEB vision for just, people-centered urban renewal. It reduces social isolation, provides accessible green spaces, and fosters shared responsibility for nature and well-being, making it a replicable model for inclusive green transformation in post-industrial regions."
"The Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje is a citizen-centered project, ensuring local residents, community groups, and civil society organizations actively shape its design, implementation, and future management. By embracing co-creation, the initiative strengthens social ties, intergenerational exchange, and environmental stewardship, transforming a post-industrial site into a vibrant, shared space.
Citizen Participation & Co-Creation
Participatory planning engaged residents and stakeholders early, shaping the park’s design, functionality, and programming.
Public input guided decisions on accessibility, native plant selection, urban furniture, and recreational activities.
Community-led planting initiatives, including a medicinal and edible garden, allow direct contributions to biodiversity restoration.
Cultural & Recreational Involvement
The outdoor amphitheater will host performances, concerts, educational talks, and storytelling, enriching local culture.
Multigenerational activities like fitness areas, craft workshops, and social gatherings will strengthen identity and community bonds.
Schools, libraries, and retirement homes will foster intergenerational exchange through nature walks, oral history events, and artistic collaborations.
Long-Term Citizen Engagement
A dedicated community group will manage park maintenance, environmental monitoring, and programming.
NGOs and civil society organizations will contribute to eco-education, health initiatives, and urban gardening programs.
Ongoing citizen feedback will guide improvements, ensuring the park evolves with community needs.
By embedding citizen-led innovation, cultural enrichment, and environmental management, the Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje serves as a replicable model for inclusive green transformation. Its co-creation process fosters ownership, strengthens social cohesion, and ensures long-term sustainability in Just Transition regions."
Citizen Participation & Co-Creation
Participatory planning engaged residents and stakeholders early, shaping the park’s design, functionality, and programming.
Public input guided decisions on accessibility, native plant selection, urban furniture, and recreational activities.
Community-led planting initiatives, including a medicinal and edible garden, allow direct contributions to biodiversity restoration.
Cultural & Recreational Involvement
The outdoor amphitheater will host performances, concerts, educational talks, and storytelling, enriching local culture.
Multigenerational activities like fitness areas, craft workshops, and social gatherings will strengthen identity and community bonds.
Schools, libraries, and retirement homes will foster intergenerational exchange through nature walks, oral history events, and artistic collaborations.
Long-Term Citizen Engagement
A dedicated community group will manage park maintenance, environmental monitoring, and programming.
NGOs and civil society organizations will contribute to eco-education, health initiatives, and urban gardening programs.
Ongoing citizen feedback will guide improvements, ensuring the park evolves with community needs.
By embedding citizen-led innovation, cultural enrichment, and environmental management, the Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje serves as a replicable model for inclusive green transformation. Its co-creation process fosters ownership, strengthens social cohesion, and ensures long-term sustainability in Just Transition regions."
"The Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje is a multi-stakeholder initiative integrating local, regional, national, and European actors to ensure successful design, implementation, and long-term sustainability. By fostering cross-sector collaboration, the project strengthens intermunicipal cooperation, knowledge exchange, and policy alignment, serving as a model for green regeneration in Just Transition regions.
Local Level
The municipalities of Trbovlje and Hrastnik co-develop and co-finance the project, strengthening regional ties through a shared green bond.
Schools, libraries, and retirement homes contribute to educational and social programming.
Local NGOs, environmental groups, and cultural associations provide expertise in ecological restoration, heritage preservation, and community engagement.
Participatory planning workshops involve residents in shaping the space, ensuring the park reflects community needs.
Regional & National Level
Research institutions and sustainability experts guide land restoration, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience strategies.
Non Tox Uni Kum ensures the use of non-toxic, sustainable materials in park infrastructure.
The initiative aligns with Slovenia’s National Strategy for Urban Green Infrastructure, supporting national climate adaptation and biodiversity goals.
European Level
The project follows NEB principles, demonstrating sustainable, inclusive, and aesthetic urban renewal.
It supports EU Just Transition Fund objectives by repurposing post-industrial landscapes into low-carbon, nature-based solutions.
Engagement with European networks (Interreg CE, URBACT, Horizon Europe) fosters knowledge-sharing on green infrastructure and post-coal regeneration.
By integrating diverse stakeholders, the project ensures holistic, cross-disciplinary, and multilevel governance, setting a new standard for sustainable transformation in post-industrial regions."
Local Level
The municipalities of Trbovlje and Hrastnik co-develop and co-finance the project, strengthening regional ties through a shared green bond.
Schools, libraries, and retirement homes contribute to educational and social programming.
Local NGOs, environmental groups, and cultural associations provide expertise in ecological restoration, heritage preservation, and community engagement.
Participatory planning workshops involve residents in shaping the space, ensuring the park reflects community needs.
Regional & National Level
Research institutions and sustainability experts guide land restoration, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience strategies.
Non Tox Uni Kum ensures the use of non-toxic, sustainable materials in park infrastructure.
The initiative aligns with Slovenia’s National Strategy for Urban Green Infrastructure, supporting national climate adaptation and biodiversity goals.
European Level
The project follows NEB principles, demonstrating sustainable, inclusive, and aesthetic urban renewal.
It supports EU Just Transition Fund objectives by repurposing post-industrial landscapes into low-carbon, nature-based solutions.
Engagement with European networks (Interreg CE, URBACT, Horizon Europe) fosters knowledge-sharing on green infrastructure and post-coal regeneration.
By integrating diverse stakeholders, the project ensures holistic, cross-disciplinary, and multilevel governance, setting a new standard for sustainable transformation in post-industrial regions."
"The Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje is a transdisciplinary initiative that integrates multiple fields to transform degraded post-mining land into a resilient, inclusive, and aesthetically appealing public space. It combines landscape architecture, environmental science, urban planning, cultural heritage preservation, public health, and community engagement, ensuring a holistic, sustainable, and community-driven approach.
Landscape Architecture & Urban Planning – Experts design a functional, biodiverse green corridor, creating an accessible and comfortable space that mitigates urban heat, improves air quality, and enhances ecosystem resilience.
Environmental Science & Ecology – Sustainability specialists guide native plant selection, water management, and biodiversity strategies, ensuring the park supports climate adaptation, carbon sequestration, and ecosystem restoration.
Cultural Heritage & Industrial History – Collaboration with historians and cultural institutions ensures that the site’s mining legacy is honored through sculptural landmarks, storytelling installations, and material choices like corten steel, symbolizing industrial history.
Public Health & Well-being – Health professionals help design spaces that promote mental and physical well-being, offering areas for relaxation, movement, and social interaction, reinforcing the connection between green environments and improved health.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement – A participatory process involving citizens, NGOs, schools, and social enterprises ensures the space reflects community needs and fosters social inclusion and long-term stewardship.
By bridging disciplines, the Green Bond becomes more than an urban park—it is a living, evolving space that integrates history, nature, and community needs into a replicable model for sustainable transformation in post-industrial regions."
Landscape Architecture & Urban Planning – Experts design a functional, biodiverse green corridor, creating an accessible and comfortable space that mitigates urban heat, improves air quality, and enhances ecosystem resilience.
Environmental Science & Ecology – Sustainability specialists guide native plant selection, water management, and biodiversity strategies, ensuring the park supports climate adaptation, carbon sequestration, and ecosystem restoration.
Cultural Heritage & Industrial History – Collaboration with historians and cultural institutions ensures that the site’s mining legacy is honored through sculptural landmarks, storytelling installations, and material choices like corten steel, symbolizing industrial history.
Public Health & Well-being – Health professionals help design spaces that promote mental and physical well-being, offering areas for relaxation, movement, and social interaction, reinforcing the connection between green environments and improved health.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement – A participatory process involving citizens, NGOs, schools, and social enterprises ensures the space reflects community needs and fosters social inclusion and long-term stewardship.
By bridging disciplines, the Green Bond becomes more than an urban park—it is a living, evolving space that integrates history, nature, and community needs into a replicable model for sustainable transformation in post-industrial regions."
"The Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje is an innovative model of urban regeneration that integrates biophilic design, industrial heritage preservation, and non-toxic materials into a post-mining landscape. Unlike typical urban parks, this initiative restores degraded industrial land, focusing on sustainability, inclusion, and aesthetics.
Transforming a Post-Industrial Site into a Nature-Based Public Space
Unlike standard projects developed from scratch, this initiative revitalizes abandoned coal mining land, proving that industrial zones can become biodiverse public spaces.
Aligns with Just Transition principles, demonstrating that environmental restoration and economic renewal can coexist in coal-dependent regions.
Integration of Healthier Circular Materials
Most parks use conventional materials, often neglecting environmental health. The Green Bond prioritizes biobased, circular, and non-toxic materials, setting a new urban standard.
Locally sourced stone, reclaimed wood, corten steel, and permeable surfaces reduce carbon impact while honoring industrial heritage.
Ecological and Climate-Resilient Design
Features rainwater collection, natural ponds, and native plants to enhance biodiversity, regulate temperature, and improve water retention.
The green corridor links Trbovlje and Hrastnik, improving ecological continuity.
Reviving Cultural and Social Bonds
Unlike conventional parks, this project weaves mining heritage into the landscape through sculptures, storytelling, and material symbolism, creating an emotional connection.
Engages vulnerable groups, promotes intergenerational exchange, and fosters community involvement in park design and maintenance.
By integrating ecology, history, public health, and community participation, Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje sets a replicable model for post-industrial green transformation, proving that nature-based solutions can revitalize communities and urban landscapes."
Transforming a Post-Industrial Site into a Nature-Based Public Space
Unlike standard projects developed from scratch, this initiative revitalizes abandoned coal mining land, proving that industrial zones can become biodiverse public spaces.
Aligns with Just Transition principles, demonstrating that environmental restoration and economic renewal can coexist in coal-dependent regions.
Integration of Healthier Circular Materials
Most parks use conventional materials, often neglecting environmental health. The Green Bond prioritizes biobased, circular, and non-toxic materials, setting a new urban standard.
Locally sourced stone, reclaimed wood, corten steel, and permeable surfaces reduce carbon impact while honoring industrial heritage.
Ecological and Climate-Resilient Design
Features rainwater collection, natural ponds, and native plants to enhance biodiversity, regulate temperature, and improve water retention.
The green corridor links Trbovlje and Hrastnik, improving ecological continuity.
Reviving Cultural and Social Bonds
Unlike conventional parks, this project weaves mining heritage into the landscape through sculptures, storytelling, and material symbolism, creating an emotional connection.
Engages vulnerable groups, promotes intergenerational exchange, and fosters community involvement in park design and maintenance.
By integrating ecology, history, public health, and community participation, Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje sets a replicable model for post-industrial green transformation, proving that nature-based solutions can revitalize communities and urban landscapes."
"The Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje follows a multidisciplinary and participatory methodology, integrating environmental sustainability, circular economy principles, and social inclusion. The project applies nature-based solutions (NBS) to transform post-mining degraded land into a thriving green corridor that reconnects Trbovlje and Hrastnik. The approach prioritizes adaptive reuse, ensuring that existing landscape elements and materials are repurposed rather than discarded, reducing waste and carbon footprint.
A co-creation process actively involves local stakeholders, including municipalities, urban planners, environmental experts, cultural institutions, and community members. Early engagement ensures that the design reflects community needs while promoting ecological regeneration. The initiative integrates biophilic design, increasing urban biodiversity with native plant species that support local ecosystems and improve air quality.
Sustainability is further reinforced through low-maintenance landscaping, green infrastructure (e.g., rainwater harvesting), and sustainable mobility solutions like pedestrian and cycling paths. The Just Transition framework is embedded in the methodology, demonstrating how industrial heritage can be transformed into inclusive, people-centered public spaces that foster environmental resilience and well-being.
The pilot approach allows for iterative improvements, using feedback loops to refine implementation. By demonstrating non-toxic material choices and climate-adaptive landscaping, the project sets a replicable model for other post-industrial regions. Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje thus serves as a blueprint for how municipalities can transition from polluted industrial sites to vibrant, sustainable, and socially connected spaces."
A co-creation process actively involves local stakeholders, including municipalities, urban planners, environmental experts, cultural institutions, and community members. Early engagement ensures that the design reflects community needs while promoting ecological regeneration. The initiative integrates biophilic design, increasing urban biodiversity with native plant species that support local ecosystems and improve air quality.
Sustainability is further reinforced through low-maintenance landscaping, green infrastructure (e.g., rainwater harvesting), and sustainable mobility solutions like pedestrian and cycling paths. The Just Transition framework is embedded in the methodology, demonstrating how industrial heritage can be transformed into inclusive, people-centered public spaces that foster environmental resilience and well-being.
The pilot approach allows for iterative improvements, using feedback loops to refine implementation. By demonstrating non-toxic material choices and climate-adaptive landscaping, the project sets a replicable model for other post-industrial regions. Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje thus serves as a blueprint for how municipalities can transition from polluted industrial sites to vibrant, sustainable, and socially connected spaces."
"The Green Bond initiative presents a scalable and adaptable model for post-industrial landscape regeneration that can be replicated in various urban and rural contexts. The project’s approach—transforming degraded land into a sustainable green corridor—is applicable to other regions facing industrial decline, environmental degradation, or disconnected urban spaces.
Key transferable elements include:
Nature-Based Solutions (NBS): Integrating greenery, biodiversity restoration, and water management strategies to improve climate resilience.
Circular Design & Non-Toxic Materials: Prioritizing biobased, locally sourced, and circular economy principles for healthier public spaces.
Multifunctional Green Infrastructure: Creating areas that combine recreation, education, and community engagement while enhancing ecological value.
Intermunicipal Cooperation: The project serves as a replicable governance model, demonstrating how two municipalities (Trbovlje & Hrastnik) can collaborate on sustainable urban planning.
Community-Driven Activation: Engaging local stakeholders, schools, and organizations in the co-design, implementation, and long-term use of the space.
Public Health & Well-Being Integration: Using biophilic principles to create environments that support mental and physical health.
By implementing these elements, the Green Bond can serve as a template for cities seeking Just Transition strategies, helping post-industrial areas across Europe revitalize their landscapes while fostering social, cultural, and economic regeneration. The initiative’s low-cost, high-impact model ensures accessibility and feasibility for municipalities with limited resources, reinforcing its broad replicability and long-term sustainability."
Key transferable elements include:
Nature-Based Solutions (NBS): Integrating greenery, biodiversity restoration, and water management strategies to improve climate resilience.
Circular Design & Non-Toxic Materials: Prioritizing biobased, locally sourced, and circular economy principles for healthier public spaces.
Multifunctional Green Infrastructure: Creating areas that combine recreation, education, and community engagement while enhancing ecological value.
Intermunicipal Cooperation: The project serves as a replicable governance model, demonstrating how two municipalities (Trbovlje & Hrastnik) can collaborate on sustainable urban planning.
Community-Driven Activation: Engaging local stakeholders, schools, and organizations in the co-design, implementation, and long-term use of the space.
Public Health & Well-Being Integration: Using biophilic principles to create environments that support mental and physical health.
By implementing these elements, the Green Bond can serve as a template for cities seeking Just Transition strategies, helping post-industrial areas across Europe revitalize their landscapes while fostering social, cultural, and economic regeneration. The initiative’s low-cost, high-impact model ensures accessibility and feasibility for municipalities with limited resources, reinforcing its broad replicability and long-term sustainability."
"The Green Bond initiative addresses urgent global challenges—climate change, resource depletion, social inequality, and environmental degradation—by implementing local, scalable solutions that accelerate the transition to a sustainable, circular economy. The project aligns with EU climate targets, the European Green Deal, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrating how green finance can drive tangible, community-focused transformation.
1. Climate Change Mitigation & Resource Efficiency
The project reduces carbon emissions by prioritizing low-carbon materials, renewable energy, and nature-based solutions. Instead of relying on carbon-intensive construction, it integrates biobased, locally sourced materials and circular design principles, significantly lowering the embodied carbon footprint. Additionally, energy-efficient systems and climate-adaptive strategies, such as urban greening and passive design, enhance resilience while mitigating the urban heat island effect.
2. Circular Economy & Low-Waste Solutions
Waste from the construction sector is a major global issue. The initiative tackles this by repurposing materials, promoting reuse, and supporting closed-loop production cycles. Through local supply chains and upcycling programs, it minimizes resource extraction, prevents landfill waste, and encourages a circular approach to public infrastructure development.
3. Social & Environmental Equity
Sustainability must be inclusive. This project ensures fair access to green solutions, focusing on vulnerable communities that are most affected by environmental challenges. By investing in affordable, sustainable housing, green public spaces, and participatory urbanism, it reduces environmental injustice while fostering community resilience and local job creation in the green economy."
1. Climate Change Mitigation & Resource Efficiency
The project reduces carbon emissions by prioritizing low-carbon materials, renewable energy, and nature-based solutions. Instead of relying on carbon-intensive construction, it integrates biobased, locally sourced materials and circular design principles, significantly lowering the embodied carbon footprint. Additionally, energy-efficient systems and climate-adaptive strategies, such as urban greening and passive design, enhance resilience while mitigating the urban heat island effect.
2. Circular Economy & Low-Waste Solutions
Waste from the construction sector is a major global issue. The initiative tackles this by repurposing materials, promoting reuse, and supporting closed-loop production cycles. Through local supply chains and upcycling programs, it minimizes resource extraction, prevents landfill waste, and encourages a circular approach to public infrastructure development.
3. Social & Environmental Equity
Sustainability must be inclusive. This project ensures fair access to green solutions, focusing on vulnerable communities that are most affected by environmental challenges. By investing in affordable, sustainable housing, green public spaces, and participatory urbanism, it reduces environmental injustice while fostering community resilience and local job creation in the green economy."
"The Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje is a community-driven, nature-based renewal project integrating NEB principles - sustainability, inclusion, and aesthetics. It ensures long-term environmental stewardship, active public engagement, and a replicable model for green transformations in post-industrial landscapes.
Key Activities & Development
Eco & Cultural Enhancements
Forma Viva Art Installations – Sculptures reflecting industrial heritage.
Botanical Learning Paths – Signage on native plants and biodiversity.
Biophilic Design – Shade structures, water features, and natural seating.
Therapeutic Gardens & Urban Farming – VDC (Varstveno delovni center) will manage herb gardens, orchards, and creative workshops.
Community Engagement & Inclusive Programmes
Tuesday Walks for Seniors – Guided walks promoting active aging.
Speakers’ Corner & Open-Air Reading – Inspired by Hyde Park, featuring public discussions and storytelling.
Outdoor Music & Cultural Gatherings – Concerts, brass band performances, and art workshops, movie nights
Pet-Friendly Events-Dog exhibitions and social gatherings in the park.
Governance &Replicability
Community Co-Governance – Local groups, schools, and NGOs actively shape activities.
NEB Lighthouse Model – A scalable framework for sustainable urban renewal.
Expert Collaboration – Non Tox Uni Kum, Healthy Materials Lab EU, and other partners ensure knowledge transfer.
NEB Integration & Next Steps
Finalizing participatory design with community input.
Expanding education & social inclusion with structured events.
Launching NEB-driven green transformation in post-mining regions.
Securing long-term partnerships for sustained impact.
By integrating green urbanism, social inclusion, and cultural storytelling, Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje transforms post-industrial sites into thriving, people-centered spaces, reconnecting communities with nature, history, and each other."
Key Activities & Development
Eco & Cultural Enhancements
Forma Viva Art Installations – Sculptures reflecting industrial heritage.
Botanical Learning Paths – Signage on native plants and biodiversity.
Biophilic Design – Shade structures, water features, and natural seating.
Therapeutic Gardens & Urban Farming – VDC (Varstveno delovni center) will manage herb gardens, orchards, and creative workshops.
Community Engagement & Inclusive Programmes
Tuesday Walks for Seniors – Guided walks promoting active aging.
Speakers’ Corner & Open-Air Reading – Inspired by Hyde Park, featuring public discussions and storytelling.
Outdoor Music & Cultural Gatherings – Concerts, brass band performances, and art workshops, movie nights
Pet-Friendly Events-Dog exhibitions and social gatherings in the park.
Governance &Replicability
Community Co-Governance – Local groups, schools, and NGOs actively shape activities.
NEB Lighthouse Model – A scalable framework for sustainable urban renewal.
Expert Collaboration – Non Tox Uni Kum, Healthy Materials Lab EU, and other partners ensure knowledge transfer.
NEB Integration & Next Steps
Finalizing participatory design with community input.
Expanding education & social inclusion with structured events.
Launching NEB-driven green transformation in post-mining regions.
Securing long-term partnerships for sustained impact.
By integrating green urbanism, social inclusion, and cultural storytelling, Green Bond Ojstro Trbovlje transforms post-industrial sites into thriving, people-centered spaces, reconnecting communities with nature, history, and each other."
