Almost 60% of Slovenia is forest, the third-highest level in Europe. Forestation has been increasing in recent decades, as over 1,200,000 trees are planted each year. More than a third of the land is protected, and included in Europe’s
Natura 2000 network, which protects biodiversity. Slovenia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world.
Green facts

Slovenia’s accounts for less than 0.004% of the Earth’s total land mass, but 1% of all living creatures and 2% of all land creatures. There are 24,000 animal species inhabiting the country.
Slovenia has one of the largest brown bear populations in Europe. The species is almost extinct in many other countries, but there are an estimated 700 or so bears living in Slovenia.
Slovenia is also an important bird sanctuary. The Ljubljana Marshes and the Sečovlje Salt Pans are nesting grounds for hundreds of bird species.
Maribor, Slovenia’s second city, is home to the
oldest productive vine in the world. It is more than 400 years old, but is nevertheless still producing grapes each year.
Slovenia is also one of the most water-rich countries in Europe. It has 27,000 km of rivers, streams and other watercourses. It also has numerous thermal springs and mineral
springs, and a large number of aquifers.
Preserving the wealth
Slovenia is not complacent about its wealth of natural greenery, and wants to preserve it for future generations. The green,
ecological, sustainable and responsible tourism being developed by Slovenia encompasses all aspects of
sustainable development. The good practices of this tourism comprise:
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European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN) - the daisy logo
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the blue flag - green models
- ecological tourist farms
Your role

People in different parts of the world look at green tourism slightly differently. If it seems to you that your Slovenian hosts are not doing enough for green tourism, or you have any better suggestions, please come forward with them. They will be grateful for any advice. You too play a part in this type of tourism, by acting properly and with awareness.
When travelling around Slovenia, choose public transport, and see the cities on foot or by bike. Cars produce four times as much carbon dioxide as a bus full of passengers. Trains are even more environment-friendly.
Stay at an eco-hotel, where you can try local specialities made the natural way. Do not use lights or heaters unnecessarily.