Saplings of tree and shrub species, provided for by a grant from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, were planted at the Sumy Technical College of SNAU. Planting saplings is one of the components of fruitful cooperation between MENDELU (Mendel University in Brno) and Sumy National Agrarian University (SNAU).

For a long time, representatives of SNAU and Mendel University worked out ideas that could be implemented together. As a result, they received funding from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic for the implementation of the project “The social and ecological significance of urban green spaces from the point of view of the water cycle, changed by global climate change – cooperation in education and research between the Mendel University in Brno and the Sumy National Agrarian University.”

The Czech side fully financed the grant for the implementation of the project to solve social and environmental problems. Funds were allocated for: internships for our students and scientific and pedagogical staff, research using the latest equipment, and most importantly, we participated in the selection of tree and shrub species adapted to the climatic conditions of the Sumy Oblast.

The purpose of cooperation is to exchange knowledge and practices on the use of green spaces to improve the water cycle and adapt urban landscapes to climate change.

Among the key directions of the project:

Creation of an “open-air laboratory” in the Vereteniv Park and on the territory of the SNAU arboretum for the study of tree transpiration and their growth. This laboratory will become an innovative research and educational site for observing urban ecosystems and their impact on the water balance. Its creation is based on the model of the successful “Open Garden” project in Brno (Czech Republic).

Conducting educational events: excursions, trainings, seminars for students and teachers and university professors.

Active exchange of experience, the project involves further cooperation between Mendel University in Brno and Sumy National Agrarian University

Public education: involvement of Sumy residents in campaigns to support the greening of the city.

In addition to scientific and educational activities, the project involves active work with the local community to increase environmental awareness and involve residents in greening the city.

During the implementation of the project, more than 1,500 tree and shrub species are planned to be planted. Among them: coniferous and deciduous plants.

In addition, the forum “Recovery and Sustainability, Climate Inequality: the Path to Fair Solutions” will be organized in the near future, based on the results of which SNAU representatives will strive to convey the importance of environmental protection to the society of Sumy Oblast.

According to the results of the forum and the project, it is expected:

Increasing environmental awareness among city residents and students.

Dissemination of sustainable development practices for adaptation of the urban environment to climate
change.

Strengthening cooperation between universities through joint research and exchange of experience.