Last weekend, the Salt Makers' Festival in Piran once again intertwined tradition, heritage, and the modern challenges of our environment. As one of Istria’s most iconic events, it attracted over 10,000 visitors to Piran and the salt pans of Sečovlje and Strunjan. Among them were the partners of the RISTANC project.
At a joint stand hosted by the Municipality of Piran, Zavod YouSea, and the PiNA Association, we took advantage of the festive atmosphere to engage in a vital conversation about the future of our sea. We invited passers-by to participate by asking a simple yet crucial question: "In your opinion, what is the greatest challenge facing our sea?"
The Voice of the People: From Waste to Invasive Species
The response from visitors—hailing from across Slovenia and abroad—was incredibly encouraging. Our cards were quickly filled with thoughts from various generations and backgrounds. The answers were specific and thoughtful, demonstrating a high level of environmental awareness.
The most frequently highlighted challenges included:
- Pollution (especially from sewage outfalls),
- Marine litter and debris on the coast,
- The impact of cargo maritime traffic,
- The presence of invasive species and other environmental pressures.
Shared Responsibility for the Future
The Salt Makers' Festival is not just a celebration of rich heritage; it is also an opportunity to reflect on a space inseparably linked to the sea. Events like these strengthen the realization that protecting the marine ecosystem is a shared responsibility. Participants emphasized that key future steps include waste reduction, responsible management of natural resources, and the protection of marine wildlife.
A big thank you to everyone who stopped by our stand and shared their views with us!
Your Opinion Matters. If you couldn't join us at the festival, you can still share your thoughts with us. What do you think is the greatest challenge facing our sea? You can submit your opinion via the following link: RISTANC Survey