Péter Zambó: the challenges of climate change must be addressed with nature-based solutions such as afforestation

Péter Zambó said that green areas such as the forest section renewed in Sárvár – the first location of a national pilot program – not only have aesthetic value, but also provide ecosystem services: they cool the city, filter the air, retain water and bind carbon dioxide.

He said that the project launched by the Ministry of Agriculture The urban forest development program is a professionally based, long-term series of climate adaptation interventions, which are based on the latest results of forestry research and site-specific expertise.

He added that the program is financed from the country’s carbon dioxide quota revenues in cooperation with the Ministry of Energy, and a model site is being developed in five locations: Budapest, Balatonfüred, Kecskemét, Sárvár and Tata, based on the work of local forestry experts.

Péter Zambó emphasized: Sárvár is a particularly worthy location for the first pilot program, as the city is home to the Forestry Science Institute of the University of Sopron, which is one of the country’s most important research and innovation centers in the field of forestry.

According to his description, the half-hectare “intervention area” may seem small, but its significance goes far beyond itself. “Renewing the structure of the tree stand, planting native, drought-tolerant tree species, and creating a mixed age and species composition are all steps that ensure the urban forest’s resilience to climate change,” he said.

He added that the 300 container seedlings planted – including pedunculate and sessile oak, field maple, elm, bird cherry and other native species – not only represent biological diversity, but are also symbols of sustainability. The unique protection, careful soil preparation and maintenance work all serve the purpose of ensuring that this forest not only survives, but also thrives.

– emphasized the State Secretary responsible for forests and land affairs.

Péter Ágh, Minister of Construction and Transport Secretary of State, the region’s MP, said at the press conference: in the past ten years, they have done a lot together with the local government to ensure that the area with excellent facilities, bordered by Vadkert-major and Vadkert körút – where the Sárvár Spa and Wellness Bath and several hotels are located – truly becomes the “green heart” of Sárvár.

The boating lake has been renovated, a running track, walkways, bicycle paths and a playground have been built in the area – he listed.

He added: the work will continue, and the creation of a garden city leisure park in the area behind the Sárvár sports hall is also on the agenda.