Mreža ekosela Balkana

Vukomerić 23/4, 10418 Dubranec

web: www.ekosela.org
e-mail: info@ekosela.org
First e-publication of the Network
Spring 2006

Our vision is the development of permacultural

We are...the Balkan Ecovillage Network
(BEN), formed from ecologically oriented NGO's from
the western Balkan region. The goal of the Network is
to establish a network of education centres for
permaculture and technologies friendly to nature,
usage of renewable energy sources, usage of natural
and recycled building materials, organic food
producing and natural cosmetic products, as well as
preserving the biodiversity and agro diversity in the
Balkan region. For now, fourteen NGO's are included,
from Croatia and Bosnia Herzegovina.
education centers with respect to and conservation of
all cultural and specific biological diversity of the
region, building of peace and tolerance, and education
and implementation of sustainable ways of life in
urban and rural regions. From 2005. we are full
members of the Global Ecovillage Network.
The goal of this publication is to inform and to make an
archive of activities and achievements of the Network,
and to spread practical methods that are used in
permaculture and ecovillage management.

General Assembly of BEN in Eko center Latinovac, autumn 2005.

Content:
Education- first steps toward sustainability of the Network - Network activities
Ecovillage creating and management - report from the ecovillage training in Zagreb,
written by Sunčana Pešak
Educational paths toward sustainability - report from the World Education Congress
held in Torino written by Dražen Šimleša
Member introduction:
GREEN NETWORK OF ACTIVIST GROUPS (GNAG)
EKOCENTER 'LATINOVAC'
SOCIETY FOR ECOLOGY AND CULTURE 'EIA'
Practical sustainability:
HOW TO MAKE A HERB SPIRAL
Activity announcements
Publications and impressum

1
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
 Education - first steps toward sustainability of the Network
The Network is informally active from
2004. and is a result of the project
'Balcan Ecovillage Network' of the
Green Network of Activist Groups
(GNAG) from Vukomerić, with
collaboration of few other NGO's from
Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The project was financed by the
Regional Environmental Center (REC)
with the headquarter in Budapest.
Within this project the activities carried
out were focused to gather similar
interest groups and their education in
permaculture, and development of
organizational skills needed for the
creatoin of ecovillages:
- a 72 hour Permaculture designer
course in collaboration with the
European Permaculture Institute from
Denmark, where 14 persons were
educated and certified for
permaculture designers in 2004.
- two courses about ecovillage creation
and management in collaboration with
Global Ecovillage Network, where 42
people were educated in Zagreb and
Sarajevo. The course was held by
Lucilla Borio and Massimo Candela
from the ecovillage Torri Superiore
Italy, where we were introduced to
conflict management, consensus and
organization of ecovillages in 2004.
and 2005.
-co-organization of the 7. International
Permaculture Convergence in 2005. in
Motovun
- introducement of the Network on the
General Assemble of the Global
Ecovillage Network in Hungary 2005.
- enrollment for the membership of
Global Ecovillage Network in 2005.
- public round table about sustainable
building methods in Croatia, in
collaboration with the Heinrich Böhl
foundation
- participation of a Network
representative on the 3. World
Environmental Education Congress
in Torino 2005
- publication of the book
''Sustainable technologies for rural
development' in 2006.
- publishment of a multimedia CD
about Network activities, methods,
handbooks and other sustainable
documentation
- publishment of the Network web
p a g e w w w. e k o s e l a . o r g w i t h
volunteer contact form
In October 2005. we continued with
further activities for internal
strengthening of the Network, for
what founding was granted from the
Academy for Educational
Development through CRONGO
program of the USAID-a. Following
activities from end 2005. and
through 2006. were and will be held:
- participation on the International
fair of ecology and healthy food in
Čakovec
- second 72 hours Permaculture
designer course held in Istria, where 22
participants were educated. The
complete course was held in croatian
by five of our first course participants,
and in this way we assured our own
permaculture teachers, mentored by
Tony Andersen from the European
Permaculture Institute Denmark
- workshop for project developing,
fundraising, executing and evaluation
- workshop about collaboration with the
local government
- publishing this Network e-publication
- Executive board meetings and
assembles of the Network
There will be held more activities during
2006. like the straw bale building
workshop in Istria, and more
publications and meetings of Network
representatives and members. Next
foreseeing steps are practical
workshops, where we will implement
our knowledge in concrete actions to
start of building education centres.
‚
2
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
 The power of communication ...in an ecovillage
Sunčana Pešak, NGO 'Rustica ' Zagreb (an article from the newspaper "Ecologica")
The NGO's GNAG, EIA, AAR and Kneja organized
with support of GEN Europe in Zagreb from 25th -
30th November 2004. a training for ecovillage
creation and management. It was an opportunity
for a gathering of enthusiasts, for who the
sustainable development is a vision of the future…
To live in an ecovillage means to be a part of a society
of people that tend to create a harmonic relationship
(with each other and any other living being on Earth).
Some do not succeed, many do so… From 1995. they
are interconnected in the Global Ecovillage Network.
Torri Superiore: to learn it in a hard way
Lucilla Borio and Massimo Candela held the course
and introduced the participants with this way of life.
They shared their experience with us. “Patience,
persistence, humor and the ability to dream as we
prosper saved us and our project in many hard times.
There is no learning “the easy way”…but if we know
how to have fun and how to enjoy the everyday life, all
problems can be solved more easily…”, said Lucilla
Borio from Torri Superiore.
A group and their vision: how to start?
One of the basic principles of every new ecovillage is
keep the diversity and honor every opinion of any
individual. No matter if the common vision is shared,
we must have in mind that the visions and expectations
of every individual differs (sometimes significantly).
One of the main reason for unsuccessful projects is
lack of clear agreements that all accept and are ready
to support the process.
A group: a potential community?!
When the members of a potential community know
well each other, they are emotionally connected. The
benefit is based on respect between members. A
harmonic community can be reached only with
confident relationship between members.
Work that is done by a group gives a feeling of being
important to every individual, preparing the food
together and community dinners give “homely”
feelings.
Celebrations, rituals, art, music, dance, games… and
any other free time spent together connect people. The
creative way of working and spending the free time,
constant education, a feeling of co-responsibility,
caring for others, sharing the goods, helping each
other… are part of everyday life.
Consensus: a good method to make decisions
To make a community life possible, there are some
rules to be adopted regarding behaviors, the group
identity must be formed, decisions about practical
things must be made… Consensus is a common
decision-making process. It is based on the premise
that any individual knows just a part of the truth, but
nobody knows the whole truth. Consensus gives
equality to everybody, unlike voting, where for decision
making is enough that 51% of the voters agrees and
others are forced to accept the decision. In consensus,
there is no voting, competition, games for gathering
votes, spending the money and nerves for election
campaigns.
Status: there must be a will to share the power…
Although status is usually a taboo theme for egalitarian
groups, it always exists. Status in a society don't have
to be something really positive or negative, but
unfortunately, it can be abused. Status is changeable,
depending on the situation… We all went through
situations where we felt superior in comprising with
others. A person with 'high status' can be too self
secure, take over leadership, make decisions for
others, react with fewer emotions… That person can
think that he or she has, the right to interrupt others,
come and leave when or she likes, decide
conditions… Unlike, a person with 'low' status, can be
less self confidential, shy, stressed, build up
frustrations. He or she can feel useless, rejected, does
not take part in discussions, others can think that the
person is 'strange'… Any potential community must
bear this in mind.
Facilitation of meetings: A night mare!?
Meetings that don't result with exact solutions can be
hard, demotivating, sometimes they lead to
community breakdown. Meetings, where consensus is
used for decision making, are guided by a
independent, trained person, a facilitator. Facilitators
role is to build up an atmosphere of trust, take care that
everyone is free to tell her or his opinion, leading the
conversation to scheduled themes, help finding
consensual decisions and assignment of tasks. The
facilitator takes care that the group takes an advantage
to (loud) individuals. The goal is to avoid unnecessary
conflicts and make common decisions.
3
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
 The power of communication ...in an ecovillage
The agenda: must be prepared in advance
To have successful meetings means having a good
idea to prepare the agenda in advance, and to
announce it to all participants (so they can prepare
themselves). If the agenda includes a discussion
about a new issue, the proposer
needs to inform the others and give
them all important information, so
that all have equal chances to
discuss the issue. The new proposal
or idea stop to be a case of the
proposer: it is by proposing given to
the group, where it will be analyzed,
torn a part, accepted or blocked. The
communication that surrounds the
decision can be diverse and
dynamic. The decision at the end is
made consensual, it means that the
decision is accepted by all. The individual have three
possibilities: to approve it, to block it, or to stand aside.
Blocking is rare if the discussion was good. Blocking is
the right of every individual that has good arguments
for it. The only way of rejecting a consensual decision
is by another consensual decision. Without
consensus no actions are carried out. Consensual
decision making can have broad use, also for bigger
groups, towns, states…
A well guided meeting can became a good discussion
and a company where everyone enjoys. It should not
take to long. If it takes more time, there must be brakes
for stretching, drinking or eating, to aerate the room, to
make jokes… In many communities that is the time for
common rituals, songs, dance, games… Too serious
and nervous discussion, without foreseeing methods
of calming down is not good for the relationships!
Conflict: it is happening, it is unavoidable…
Conflict is not something that is
unneeded. Sometimes it is better
that the negative thoughts and
emotions come out to face them and
look for solutions… Conflict appears
when at least two persons have
different opinions about something,
and at least one is emotionally
shook-up. We are afraid of conflicts
because it turns us to our
subconscious, discovers
suppressed emotions, emotions
that we don't like to confess even to
ourselves…
Conflict, and our reaction is one of the ways to get to
know us and others. It rarely is concentrated on two
persons, it spreads usually fast. It can happen for
more reasons: lack of basic resources that are needed
for surviving, unclear information, different values,
unacceptance, rejection… Some people are 'heavy'
...contoinued....
and need more attention, although they are not aware
of it.
Respect: I appreciate you like you are!
The prevention of conflict is the best solution. It
consist from non violent
communication, taking responsibility
for self benefit and stability. A human
that is satisfied with its life usually
doesn't have the need to attack
others, doesn't make problems (out of
nothing) and solves it more easily
when a problem appear. Education is
one thing that contributes to
prevention conflicts, and good
familiarizing with people with who we
communicate in a community. It has to
be beared in mind that a person is not
equal to his or her action. The person is needed to be
taken as he or she is, the actions are only to be
criticized. Clear decisions that are approved by all are
also a way to prevent conflicts. In any case, a bad
influence by 'status' has to be prevented in a
community.
Dismantle: I give up!
Because of many conflicts on all levels of social life,
there are methods developed to manage conflicts that
already appeared, to avoid bad consequences. Some
of the techniques are:
◦ mediation- it is lead by an independent person
that enjoys trust from both sides 'in war'. He or she
usually gives a path to a clearer view of the situation
and prepares a road towards solutions.
◦ meta-communication is a kind of time-out and
it can be taken by one side that is able to realize the
conflict and its consequences. This person puts the
conflict content in the second plan,
and the negative search for the one
who is guilty, falls out.
◦ to dismantle with a 'I give up'- an
honest and honourfull give up
sometimes costs less then to
continue the conflict
◦ cognitive restructuring - it is a
method of mentioning an unexpected
element that draws the attention
a w a y, c o n f u s e s , l o w e r s t h e
importance of the conflict… an
example is when the telephone rings
in the culmination of the conflict, or a pollution is find on
the land about the conflict showed up…
Every inventive labor in development of methods for
conflict prevention and management, and for removal
and amortizing of bad consequences is worth an
attention! ‚
4
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
Educational paths toward sustainability
Dražen Šimleša, G.N.A.G. Vukomerić (article published on http://www.alertonline.org)
Nulla più può feririci, Nullla può farci del mal, ma guesto
nostro mondo, mai cesseremo d'amar, e per salvar la
terra mai cesserem di lottar.
So sounded the song of the hundreds of high school
children from Torino on the plenary session of the Third
World Environment Education Congress (3WEEC).
With feedback from a real orchestra through play, or we
could call it a child musical, they told us directly how
strong they got, how nothing can hurt them, how we
need to always love our world, and fight always for the
rescue of the Earth.
Yes, you read right, the youth didn't sing a song for the
Revolution front for the Earth, but for an exquisite
audience of many scientists and academics, professors
and teachers from basic and high schools, bigger or
smaller politicians, representatives of global institutions,
activist from all over the world, people from press and
who knows from where else. This all happened under
the umbrella of the United Nations, in the local
organization of the region Piemont, the town Torino, the
Regional Agency for Environment Protection, and other
domestic eco expert forces. To the Congress applied
1500 people plus people who came in daily
arrangements, and all this took place in the biggest
congress centre in this part of Europe.
In the old Fiat factory
In fact, the Congress took place in an old Fiat factory that
was abandoned when the globalization started its race
to the bottom and the factories began to shut down in the
West, and to open in poorer countries, where it was
easier to train rigidity. On the roof there is still the runway
where the cars were tested. I heard later that the whole
giant building was a squatted concert place for
alternative bands. During the Congress a good film
festival also took place with themes in tune with the
Congress'.
The 3WEEC is one of those happenings when after they
are finished, you don't know what to actually think about
it. This is this double edged sword over the heads of
activists: on one hand you are aware that this is big chit-
chat happening with a budget construction that causes
headache to any normal person, and on the other hand
the activists always pilgrim on this kind of assemblies
with hope that they get to know somebody great or that
his or her presentation or presence implicates on
something or somebody. Both sides crosed my mind.
But, if now somebody asked me if I am crazy happy that
I had participated on such event, I would lie if I said yes. It
is the case of pure naivety.
“Educational paths toward sustainability”
In fact, the subtitle of the Congress was “Educational
paths toward sustainability”. That is what turns you on,
and you go to listen for practical solutions on many and
different paths toward sustainability. And here is the
hook. When the Congress is opened by a crowd of
politicians that bore the international assembly by
holding half hour speeches about their local mess,
outvoting who did more for the nature and corrupt
celebration of the mother Earth, the path seems to
become dead ended. The only things that can comfort
y o u then
a r e t h e
kids with
their revolu
tionar y call,
beca u s e
they still
didn't get to
know t h e
scam adult
world . Also,
many prese
ntatio n s
were only
speculations and abstract introductions to somebody's
scientific work. Ok, I don't want just to criticize, there
were also some moments when you think that this is the
right place where you have to be. One of it was also
listening to Fritjof Capra, who is not needed to be much
introduced. To explain for the youngest readers, let's say
that from Capra we've learned about the interconnection
of the world, the webs of life, and learned to understand
the sustainability in nature. With this point Capra also
started his presentation. He stressed that we should not
accept the concept of sustainable development that the
corporate and political elite imposed, because if we do,
we actually support the stagnation of real sustainable
relation to the living world of nature and the more fair
relations between people. Capra, once again, called to
sustainability in sense of the natural circles, balance and
celebration of diversity. He propounded his latest work
on a new pedagogy and in this place he made a protest.
In fact, Capra refused to hold his announced
presentation, because the organization shortened the
foreseeing time of thirty minutes to just ten, because the
time for his and other good presentation was spent by
the political gluttons at the beginning of the session. We,
who took the subtitle of the Congress literally, have had
bubbling red blood cells under the skin.
The slow food movement
The organization began to squeek like a door when it
opens. Nobody of the organizers dared to say to the
honorable bosses from the world of politic, how they
overdraw their time for chit chat, well, it is simple to
understand, who paid the event… and hush. Capra flied
all over the USA and the ocean to be shortened to 10
minutes. His denial he stressed excellent with the
statement that the pedagogy about education cannot be
squeezed into 10 minutes, in the same way how in
nature thing do not happen with McDonalds' speed.
This was also an excellent overture to the next speaker
Carlo Petrini, the president of the Slow Food movement.
Petrini held a passionate speech, probably also angry
about the priority replacement, considering the themes
that we heared about on the first day.
5
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
Educational paths toward sustainability ...contoinued....

He claimed a fact, that sounds a little crazy to me, but I All those little houses were renewed a long time ago,
also do not believe that he would just disseminate this and for the renovation, instead of cement, lime was used
kind of information. He said that the amount of money as a more ecologic and healthier material. Torri is an
spent for mobile phones and services around them in interesting place, not only because it's oriented toward
Italy is 17% of the house budget, and for food 12%. ecologic living but also as a great experience in
Every comment is odd. Petrini community building,
protested against instant TV and understanding of differences
other cook books, stressing that and functioning on the
the gastronomy should not be principles of collaboration
separated from other dimensions instead of power hierarchy.
of the society. Although as a There is also a great
representative of a culture that connection between relation
calls for balance, enjoy of life and of personal and collective
slow eating, he said that we ownership, so there are
cannot delay to act. This common areas that are
afternoon was to short, but full conducted by a coop in Torry,
with beautiful speakers. Akpezi but also every person has a
Ogbuigbwe is a beautiful strong private place if they want little
woman from Kenia, and as a peace for themselves. I like to
representative of the UNEP she abstract Torri, because it is a
reminded us how we are at the key place in spreading the
beginning of the UN decade for education about ecovillages
education about sustainable and ecotowns in our region. 3
development. She overviewed the situation in Africa and years ago we came to visit many places in Italy with
criticized the big words and no actions of the biggest more or less the same background, in Torry we didn't
leaders and the business sector. Grazia Borrini- spent the whole day. Today when I remember this
Feyerabend works for the World Conservation Union, together with Luccilla Borio and Massimo Candela, with
and she held also a good speech, how in the fight for who we collaborate the most, we laugh how much
conservation of areas and landscapes we must have in collaboration came out of this short meeting.
mind the social sustainability, in respect for the people. In the following years many activists from this region
She said that we have to stop proclaiming protected made a visit to Torri, but we were always concerned that
areas without people, instead, we have to enrich our in this way only a few people could be included, and
knowledge of native tribes and autochthonous they've spent a lot of energy and money. So, we
inhabitants of this areas, who, even if they do not decided to bring Torri to us, so that more people could be
understand what 'sustainable educated about ecovillages,
development' means, could be p e r m a c u l t u r e , e n e r g y,
the best tutors for sustainable democratic way of decision
management of the environment. making, independent
economic structures, and
The Global Ecovillage Network other important themes, if you
Afterwards I found her book like to walk this path. A big
'Sharing Power' in which she support offered the Regional
develops a concept of “conserved Environmental Center in
community area”; areas that are Hungary, which assured
under protection, but people live funding for initial meetings
there in sustainable way. After the and educative trainings. The
first day, the second and the third first training about ecovillage
were covered by presentations creation and management
and lessons. Many presentations was held in 2004 in Zagreb,
were due at the same time, and and the next one in 2005 in
we have had to choose those that Sarajevo.
we didn't want to miss, and sometimes we needed to After the learning, some concrete work followed, and so,
make real acrobatics in our schedule. I was a part of the the Balkan Ecovillage Network (BEN) was born, the
Global Ecovillage Network team which represented the work of which I presented in Torino. BEN has the goal to
whole Network, their members and projects. To be help in creation of permaculture education centres in the
honest, if the crew from Torry Superiore, a beautiful western Balkan region and through this network to
Italian ecovillage, didn't have invited me to come, today speed up the process and make it easier. Through BEN,
you wouldn't read this lines. Torri is all made out of stone we organize many practical workshops on making bio
and reminds me of the landscape in Istria or Dalmatia. fuel from waste oil, natural building from straw bales,
6
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
Educational paths toward sustainability ...continued....
permacultural design of our gardens and projects, and
many more needed solutions in energy, waste water
treatment, composting… At this time there are more than
10 active members from the region and all of them need
a separate approach and working
tempo . After the presentation,
madam Akpezi congratulated for the
practical impact of our education,
and that all workshops are free or for
minimal cost to our members, so that
they can become achievable to
anyone dissregarding his/hers
e c o n o m i c p o w e r .
Currently there are more that ten
active members form the entire
region and each one of them requires
a special type of approach and work
tempo. After the presentation Mrs.
Akpezi congratulated us on behalf of the practical aspect
of our education and the fact that all workshops are free,
or there is a minimum fee. That makes them highly
affordable disregarding someone's economical power,
or lack of it. She said that as a woman from Africa, she
understands the difference between “ecological
technologies” and usable ecological technologies.
Restaurant of workers cooperation
After the presentation, many people approach me with
excitement on their faces telling me that we inspire them
by showing them the path to sustainability. Obviously,
this region remains to be a synonym for wars and greedy
politicians. Let the other of Balkan be shown. During
these two days of presentations rumors about
organizer's financial problems occurred. High costs and
unsustainability of this type of event brought to the
decision that the next congress should take place in
South Africa, in two years, and by that, it is going to loose
it's annual character. I've used this time to get to know
Torino which, to my greatest content, turned out to be a
beautiful town. Green terraces,
balconies and roofs on top of which
there are trees growing to a few
meters height and sometimes you are
not sure whether the building ends or
a forest starts. It is one of the most
beautiful urban ecological stories I've
ever seen. Lucilla and Massimo one
night took me to a restaurant that is
run by workers cooperation and the
friendly feeling held inside looked like
we've entered to someone's private
party rather than to a public
restaurant. Torino is the city that is
worth sensing. We've received an
unexpected present on the congress itself. Organizers
probably felt embarrassed due to the increasing critics
so they tried to improve our satisfaction with the
unannounced lecture by Capra, but this time, the real
one. Being able to finally hear the lecture by Capra and
going to Torino was a good thing. The lecture itself being
held by surprise only increased the chaos.
You were able to find out about the lecture only by pure
luck, that someone you knew whispered the good news.
Other problem was that lots of people
already made reservations for
afternoon excursions so they were
deprived for this lecture, or they ran
out of the buses at the last moment
making additional problems to
excursion organizers.
At last, Capra!
Capra finally introduced his new
pedagogics that has been working on
at the University of Berkeley in the
USA. He noted that our future
depends on our eco-literacy, whether
we know sustainability processes and principles.
Through the multidisciplinary approach they teach
children to that. By him, lectures about ecology cannot
be shallow, because the nature herself is complex. He
emphasized that he has a belief to the global civil
movement that, according to him, bases on two equally
important thesis: fight for human dignity and fight for eco-
sustainability.
While he was describing workshops that are appropriate
for children's education I was melting from the pleasure
of knowing how many similarities were there with the
permacultural gardens and projects. I've heard that the
translation of his latest book “The Hidden Connections: A
Science for Sustainable Living” is about to be released.
In more detailed about the eco-literacy you can check on
www.ecoliteracy.org. This truly inspired me and it spiced
up my day.
At the end of his speech, Carlo Petini from Slow Food
movement said that we need to try, we may not succeed
but we must try. At the last meeting of Balkan Ecovillages
network, held in Latinovac, Slavonia, many of us felt as
we are winners already due to our
meetings, cooperation, mutual help
and solidarity and creation of different
worlds in this region. Region that
flows in pain and suffering. That fact
only may require us to start drawing
paths that appreciate human dignity
and take care of eco-sustainability.
Feeling of being a winner doesn't
mean that we will only pick up our
clothes, congratulate each others
and go home. It means we are really
proud of the victorious feeling we
have that melts over us and that is a
product of this fine meal we've
c o o k e d t o g e t h e r .
That is the feeling that inspires because you know that
you are not alone. When you are not alone, the walk
towards the sustainability gets so light and you take it
with a smile.. ‚
7
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
Member introduction
Green Network of Activist Groups
G.N.A.G.
Vukomerić 23/4, 10418 Vukomerić Dubranec
Tel.+385 91 5351643, Fax. +385 1 4820 094, www.zmag.hr
e-mail address: zmag@zmag.hr, coordinator Dražen Šimleša

GNAG was founded in 2002 with the mission to promote and

create sustainable knowledge and skills that can improve
living conditions without harming people or nature.
Recycled Estate is the most concrete and the most
important project we're involved in, if we talk about size and
permanent influence or impact on society. We are trying to
create a sustainable community, which would work as an
open space and educational centre. Vukomeric village,
where we conduct our project, is situated in Vukomericke
Gorice, some twenty kilometers south of our capital Zagreb.
That's very pleasant mountainous landscape, suffering from
leaving of inhabitants. In the UNDP Human Development
Report 2004 for Croatia, Recycled Estate was named as
one of the best practices of youth activism in local
community. After a few years of self education, GNAG
activists started with workshop for local communities,
organizations and public about eco-technologies,
renewable energy resources, organic gardening,
sustainable building etc. Today, the main goal is to finish
Recycled Estate which is still in process of creation. As a
step further in that direction we organised in period 06-09th
of July, 2006, workshop about straw bale building. We will
build one small bungalow for guests out of straw bales.
Workshop is free.

8
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
 Member introduction
The association for ecology and eco vegetables, fruits, honey, spices and
culture salubrious plants, walking...).
EIA Eko-art center EIA Bale PROTECTION OF NATURE
San Zuian 13
Tel.: 052/ 824 342
The top priority of the eco-art center Eia is
Mob.: 00385/98/ 91 60 650 president: protection of the natural and cultural
Igor Drandić inheritance of the territory around and
e-mail address: eia@pu.t-com.hr inside of a district of Bale. It is well-known
Eia is a member of The Green forum, BEN and GEN (Global that Istria has rich cultural and inheritance
Ecovillage Network) resources, natural resources, different ecosystems etc.
With such kind, Istria has a huge potential for the viable
ECO TOURISM development.
Istria is an ideal territory for the development of eco The association Eia and eco-art center Eia has been
tourism as an economic activity which would provide working on an enhacement of sensibility of the local
viable economic development of the local communities inhabitants in a way of campaigns for the protection of
and saving natural and cultural values. the nature, by public pictures and photo displays,
The association Eia, activities and projects of it's own workshops and seminars with children at different age,
are used for the development of the eco tourism. Web by marking and celebrating ecologically important
page is under construction and there will be information dates.There is a plan to build a workshop-room for
about eco-locations and accommodations, food, old practiceing old trades (pottery, work with rests of the
trades, riding, etc. in a district of Bale and wider (about wood). The workshop would be used for the education
30km around). of the visitors (especially the young people).
Since Eia is giving an example of life in a harmony with
the nature, people from all parts of Croatia and around BUILDING OF THE OBJECTS OF THE ECO-CENTER
the world are coming to take a rest, to learn because that The center has got an area of 17000 square meters to
way of life motivates them. be used (property of Atilio Dandrić) for the aims of the
center. Since we need room for accomodation of 30
EIA AND PERMACULTURE persons at least (average number of students in a
Electric energy is obtained classroom) we think that it should be made the example
from the sun and wind by of eco-building (traditional eco-building by stone, lime,
means of windmills and building by straw and lime) because it is also one of the
solar panels. themes of the center.
Rainwater is collected from Building is a prerequisite for work of the center through
the roof and is filtrated so it the whole year because the work in an open area
can be used for washing depends on the weather. Work of the eco-art center has
and watering the plants. been sponsored by few donors and in actions of
Spring water is used for cleaning and preparing of the territory, about hundred
drink which has to be brought from Motovun. volunteers have been included from Croatia and the rest
The forest is cleaned from old branches and trees, of the Europe. We hope that local companies and local
underbrush clears also so there is enough firewood. authority will help us too.
There is an outer compost WC in a usage and there is a
plan of building of the internal one too. Compost pile is EDUCATION
made from the waste of the trees and animal Since 2003 when Eia has
feces.There are plans to build a lake with a purpose of been established The
irrigation and creation of milder microclimate. One can association for the
see ecologic building of the wood houses and there are ecology and culture,
also plans to build a circular house which would serve as huge efforts have been
an educational center. Under construction is a wooden put in the education and
stable for the animals (nanny goats, donkey, horses). protection of the
The education of the local inhabitants is also foreseen landscape (workshops,
and workshops how to start seminars, displays,
with eco tourism/eco school in the nature).
food/eco building/sources of Through contact with domestic animals, walking
the energy... through the nature, working in the garden, creative
As soon as organization of workshops, music, pottery, wool, etc. students and other
the eco-center is completed visitors familiarize themselves with ecological habits in
we will offer tourist contents everyday's life.
(a contact with the domestic
animals, riding, growing of THE POINT OF THE CENTER- A VISION

9
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
 Member introduction
through harmony living of people and the nature. The would be realized through February and March 2006 by
main point of the center is a custody of natural and the point of stimulation
cultural values of district of Bale and Istria by means of: of better managing of
- taking the advantage of a free time, be creative, natural resources and
educate the students, citizens and public more efficiency
- preserving different species and ecosystem protection of the nature
- preserving cultural and traditional values and mankind by the
- stimulation of ecological way point of intersector
of thinking and acting collaboration because
- stimulation of volunteerism. of gaining minimal
In a purpose of gaining the pollution and
main point, it is longed for destroying of eco system.
developing and preserving of Activities which would be a part of this project are
collaboration of cultural, possibility of discussion, presentations, workshops,
artistic and ecological making of educative materials.
associations which act in The project «Eco education of the young people for a
Croatia and in foreign countries, so the center could be a better world» has begun in October 2005. It is planned to
global, international settlement with multicultural center last till October 2006. The project is being realized
in the future. through collaboration of infant nursery, elementary
school and high school.
FROM 2003 TO 2006 All presentations and workshops are holded in the eco-
The project of the center called «Eco education for a art center Eia and they are attuned according to the age
better world» is a result of three year work (2003-2006) and interests.
of the association for ecology and culture Eia on Even though the project by
education and sensibility in a field of ecology, protection iits activities has been
of the nature and everything living and development of planned for 2006, it is
eco tourism. Since there are needs for education in imagined as a continual
today's world of local citizens and students about activity, where would grow
preservation of natural resources and tourist visits of and qualify a basis of
natural untouched landscapes, according to our people who are interested
opinion, it is necessary to promote a viable development in permaculture. The eco-
resolving. art center would provide
In eco-art center we already working on everything help to for the construction
already said, and in a further reconstruction of the of an eco village.
territory, an to build an infrastructure for the educational
center, we could realize activities in a wider and more INFO MATERIALS
quality capacity through the whole year. In 2006 has been planned a preparation and printing of
paphlet which would present natural and cultural
PROJECTS inheritance of a district of Bale with explanation of base
Our intention is to build one space for reception and of concepts (such as eco-tourism, sustainable
education for about 30 people and to equip it as a development, what is EIA).
classroom for the students and visitors ( for realizing the
project «Eco education for a better world»). CONTACT
An existing program of school in a nature is made by the e-mail: eia@pu.hinet.hr
point for the students to learn about biological diversity telephone number: 052/824-342
acting in a nature and her endangered. mobile 00385/98/ 91 60 650
It is also planned to make
an ethno workshop in the LOCATION OF THE ECO-ART CENTER:
eco-art center, where - 3 km from Bale in the direction of Krmed (10 km
traditional items and tools from the sea, 16 km from Rovinj, and 23 km from Pula)
would be collected so the - from the direction of Rijeka or Kopar
visitors of the center - way out Rovinj / Kanfanar
could be introduced with - after 4 km on the right for Pula / Bale
cultural and traditional - after 6 km on the left in the direction for Krmed
inheritance of the territory and from crossroad 300 m on the right from the
and connect it with sign for EIA
today's development of - after 300 m of forest way there is eco-art center
permaculture. Eia
The project of education of citizens and young people ‚
10
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
 Member introduction
E k o c e n t e r
L A T I N O V A C
Latinovac 11, 34350
Čaglin, Croatia
tel: +385 34 221583
www.latinovac.org
e-mail adresa:
office@latinovac.org
kontakt: Branka
Drabek-Milekić

Established in 1995, Eco Centre Latinovac, (the legal

successor of Eco Village Latinovac), has hosted many
educational programs, cooperative projects, and
of Latinovac within the Pozega Valley, surrounded by
volunteer initiatives in the areas of mediation and conflict
fields and meadows, forests and woodlands. This
resolution, environmental awareness, and the
beautiful valley is
preservation and promotion of cultural traditions and
encircled by the Dilj,
heritage. The
Krndija, Pozeska Gora,
primary project
Psunj, and Papuk
of Eco Centre
mountains and is home to
Latinovac is the
a nature park, which
"Seedlings of
includes hiking trails,
Peace" (Peace
Sovsko lake, and
Camp). This
numerous archaeological
summer camp
sites from the Roman
invites youth
period. The area is ideal
from former
for walking, hiking,
Yugoslavia together for workshops, trainings, projects
bicycling and outdoors activities. The neighboring town of
and activities that build awareness, trust, communication
Kutjevo is also well known for its vineyards, and
s k i l l s a n d l a s t i n g f r i e n d s h i p .
agricultural producing corn, sugar beats, wheat, and
others surround the villages of this idyllic valley. In
O t h e r addition, the railway connects Latinovac with the cities
activities of Pozega and Osijek with connections to Zagreb.
and projects
include
workshops,
trainings,
organizing
volunteer
work projects, and community building activities. Some of
these programs include people from around the world
working together with Croatians in their communities on
projects to improve living conditions and learn from each
o t h e r ' s c u l t u r a l h e r i t a g e .
The headquarter of Eco Centre Latinovac is in the village
11
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
 Member introduction
Summer 14-31 Volunteer working actions
September
program 2006 All for volunteer working actions…
improving Also time for clean up and storage for winter.
infrastructure Planned additional activities for summer
Morning circle dances
Morning meditation
Language class
Evening fires w/ music, stories, games etc…
Talent shows with each group
Fresh bread baking
“Peace Table” meals with specialties from the participants'
local kitchen
To support our growth into the future, the summer of 2006 Vegetable and flower garden
will be dedicated to renovation of our infrastructure. Sunday excursions and rest days
As the groups, we are hosting, become larger, we are Weekend workshops periodic workshops as the program
aware that we spend more and more time on arranging develops
basic needs for sleeping, sanitation and keeping dry. By
improving this in a focused, joint effort, we will have more Costs for overhead
time in forthcomming on development of the program. Bare minimum costs 100 kuna/15 euros/$17 per person
In this way we can create an environment capable of per day
supporting the reconciliation work we are engaged in, Includes utilities, food, staff cook
increasing Eko Center Latinovac's capacity Westerners coming for shorter fixed periods - 15
for being of service in this post war region of the Balkans. euros/$17 per person per day
Longer term interns (one month) 7.50 euros per
...before... Check out the list below if you can help us to day/225 euros per month
find/bring with you any stuff we need ... Please raise money for our work, this fee is half of our
expenses to support you!
Different groups and individuals will come to help in building
- please use email / phone / pigeon to tell us when you Tools and materials from outside volunteers?
will be there! Special harder to find or afford, and easy to travel w/o
paying tax at border
Time frame for volunteers and working actions Any tools that can be brought including;
June Power tools for construction
8 - 11 Zen Meditation Workshop (Christoph Hatlapa) Power cables
12- 30 Preparation month for construction and volunteers. ladders
Hand tools for construction
Gardening tools
July Special materials
All for volunteer working actions (more details and plans Cabinets
here) Counter tops
Kitchen fixtures
August Lighting fixtures
4-13 Non Violent Communication workshop (Katharina Paint
Sander and Nada Ignjatovic Savic) Tiles ‚

12
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
Practical sustainability
How to make a herb spiral (from the Center for alternative technologies, www.cat.org.uk)

Do your herbs languish forgotten at the bottom of the (companion planting) and establish a healthy, stable and
garden, out of sight, out of mind? Or perhaps there diverse environment, attracting a range of attractive and
doesn't appear to be the space or conditions to beneficial wildlife.
accomodate all your favourite herbs? The solution is to create a Some plants are great pest deterrants: for example, basil,
herb spiral right next to the kitchen door. calendula, and French marigold. Other herbs attract beneficial
A herb spiral is as simple as it sounds: a large spiral insects, such as ladybirds and bees, that feed on pests. Lemon
structure, typically measuring 1.5–2 metres wide at the balm, marjoram, chamomile and French marigold are
diameter, spiralling up to a height of 1–1.5 metres high, with a particularly useful for this. Borage and chamomile are good for
planting path running up it (see diagram). A herb spiral of improving the growth and taste of neighbouring plants.
these proportions is big enough to accomodate at least all of Finally, the aesthetic pleasure the herb spiral creates is just as
the basic culinary herbs, and likely a few exotic ones too. important. Its fluid curves and height add interest to the
largely horizontal nature of most
gardens, as well as providing an
unique conversational piece.
rosemary
chamomile
strawberry
How to construct it?
Why a s piral? parsley
sweet Virtually any building materials
There are many Advantages of violet can be used, as long as they're
creating a herb spiral. Firstly, by oregano reasonably long-lived. Anything
making use of both the vertical sorrel from wooden stakes, to large slates,
and the horizontal space, it allows bricks, stones, bottles stacked on
you to make maximum use of a their side, or even scrap tyres can
small growing area. This is sage be used to create the walls of the
particularly beneficial to those tarragon spiral.
with little or no garden. The lemon If you are building directly onto
curved nature of the planting beds balm earth, it's advisable to mulch the
also increases the growing area area beforehand, to prevent weed
available, compared to more problems whilst the herbs are
traditional straight-edged gardens. chives watermint establishing themselves. You can
Due to its design, the herb spiral use anything water permeable,
offers a variety of different calendula wild garlic such as cardboard or old carpet. If
microclimates and aspects that are you are building onto concrete,
all easily accessible. The benefits break it up to ensure adequate
of this diversity of habitats are drainage
obvious: the gardener is able to Cross-section You can choose one of two
plant a wide range of plants, all methods of construction. The
with differing needs and uses, in a simplest and possibly less stable
very small area. Oil-rich herbs method, at least while the herbs are
such as rosemary, thyme and sage
can be grown on the dry and
sunny top southerly side, whereas
the moist and sheltered base on
the northerly side is perfect for

green foliage herbs such as mint, parsley and coriander. There

is even the potential to create a small pond or bog area at the
base of the spiral for plants such as watercress and watermint.
The advantages of having such diversity extend beyond
convenience to the chef. The nature of the herb spiral, with
close interplanting of many different species, can create
mutually beneficial relationships between the different herbs
becoming established, is to pile the soil into a large heap, and
insert stones, slates, etc. to create a spiral shape. Because there
is a danger of the soil washing away in rain or blowing away
in wind before the plants are established, it is best to use pot-
grown plants if you choose this method.
The second method is more permanent and more involved:
First, stake out the spiral shape using sticks, bamboo etc. The

13
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
Practical sustainability ...continued....

the required herb and painting it onto the wall.

Rock cress ( Arabis caucasica ): This evergreen perennial grows
up to 15cm tall. The cress-like leaves are available year-round.
base should be typically between 1.5–2m in diameter. Next, Strawberries ( Fragaria species): These grow well in sunny or
construct the walls, starting from the outside and moving partly shaded walls and can reach a height of 15–25cm.
inwards. Add more layers, gradually increasing the height as is a good choice—a native species with small delicious fruit.
you move into the centre (see sectional elevation diagram). If Thyme ( Thymus species): This dwarf, spreading evergreen
you are using mortar, add the soil at the end. If you are using a needs a sunny location. Use it in salads, or as flavouring for
'dry stone' technique, add the soil as you go to give more cooked foods.
support and stability.
Try and use relatively weed-free soil for obvious reasons. If
soil or well rotted compost is in short supply, you can try Pond plants
using a base layer of fresh manure or unrotted organic waste The following plants grow best in water 5–30cm deep.
with a layer of 8–10cm of soil on top, but be wary of the spiral Watercress (Nasturtium officinalis): This native plant will often
settling as your base layer breaks down. grow all year round in mild conditions. It is highly nutritious.
Some herbs may require different soil conditions than others. Waterfringe (Nymphoides peltata): This can be quite vigorous,
With careful planning, you can provide the optimum and the stems will grow up to 1.5m tall. Both the leaves and
conditions for each—for example, adding sand to the soil for stems can be used like spinach.
Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary. However, most will do
well in good soil or compost.
To build the pond or bog at the base, first put down a layer of
sand or old carpet to prevent stones or other sharp objects
from puncturing the liner. Next, install a plastic liner and Bog plants
smooth a thin layer of mud around its surface to enable pond Pickere l weed (Pontederia cordata): This plant will be 75cm tall
fauna and flora to establish quicker. Bury the edge of the lining and 50cm wide at maturity. The seeds can be eaten raw, or
under rocks and soil to prevent it from slipping. To build the cooked like rice. The young leaves and shoots can be used in
bog area, use a perforated liner. salads.
Golden saxifrage (Chrysoplenium alternifolium ): This is a low-
growing, creeping native plant, 20cm tall and 50cm wide. It
prefers shade. The leaves can be used in salads in the early
spring.

Planting it up
The diagram shows some of the most common herbs that can
be used. If you wish to experiment, try to avoid any herbs that
may be too invasive or too large for the space. For example,
mint can be particularly rampant, so it's a good idea to plant
this in a pot within the spiral to restrict its roots.
Here are some further suggestions for more difficult areas of
the spiral:
Introduction to Permaculture, or contact the Permaculture
Shady plants
Sweet violet (Viola odorata): This creeping evergreen perennial
grows to be approximately 15cm tall. Both the leaves and
flowers are tasty in winter salads. It can be used as a gentle
expectorant.
Sorrel (Rumex acetosa): This native perennial will reach a
A word about permaculture
The herb spiral has been pioneered largely through
permaculture, a design system that models sustainable human
settlements on natural ecosystems.
The herb spiral beautifully represents some of its main
principles through its energy-efficient design, the stacking of
plants to promote best use of space, and the diversity of plants
used to create a productive, stable and healthy niche in your
garden.
To find out more about permaculture, see Bill Mollison’s
Association at BCM Permaculture Association, London WC 1N
3XX. Tel/fax. 07041 390170/0113 2621718.
Email. office@permaculture.org.uk
Website. www.permaculture.org.uk

‚
mature size of 60cm high and 30cm wide. It is very tolerant of
a range of conditions, and is easily grown. The lemon-
flavoured leaves can be used in salads or like spinach.
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis): At maturity, this herb is
70cm tall and 40cm wide. It is very tolerant of a range of
conditions and will succeed in light shade. The lemon-
flavoured leaves can be used in salads or to make a refreshing
tea.
Wild garlic (Allium ursimum ): This grows well in wet soils
and will reach a height of up to 30cm. The garlic-flavoured
leaves available in February/March. Note that it can be invasive.

Plants for wall spaces

You can increase your growing area further by planting into
the walls of the spiral. If you have dry stone walls, then there
are probably already pockets of soil to plant into. If not, Ken Written by Josie Coggins
Fern, in his excellent book Plants For A Future, recommends © Centre for Alternative Technology, August 1998
mixing up a paste of compost and water, adding the seeds of Illustration by Nicki Orton.

13
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
 Workshop announcements
what?who?when?where?

Strawbale building workshop:

ZMAG July Vukomerić (00385/91/535-1643), EIA august Bale (00385/98/412-
100), KNEJA September Lopatinec (00385/98/412-100)

Pottery:
EKOPARK PERNATJuly Lubenice (00385/91/403-9623)

Bread oven:
ZMAG July Vukomerić (091/535-1643)

Geomanthy:
GAIA, autumn, Pula (098/195 2306), VILENICE, na upit, (098/554-973)

Seed and plant exchange:

RUSTICA Zagreb (00385/95/808 2688)

Non violent communication::

EKO CENTER LATINOVAC August , Čaglin (00385/91/619-5073)

Juggling workshops:
ČAROBNJAKOV ŠEŠIR, Pula (00385/99/448-0597)

Worskhop about handcraft with corn leaves:

KNEJA, announcements on www.kneja.hr, Lopatinec (00385/98/412-100)

Terapeutic dance:
GAIA, autumn, Pula (00385/98/195 2306)

Projections on theme permaculture and ecovillages, presentations of

permacultural estates and ecovillages:
KNEJA, announcements on www.kneja.hr, Lopatinec (00385/98/412-100)

Compost toilet:
KNEJA, announcements on www.kneja.hr, Lopatinec (00385/98/412-100)

Forrest garden planting:

KNEJA, October Lopatinec (00385/98/412-100)

Zen meditation:
EKO CENTER LATINOVAC,June, Čaglin (00385/91/619-5073)

Festival of street wizards:

Čarobnjakov šešir, August 23.-25. Pula (00385/99/448-0597)

The Balkan Ecovillage Network needs volunteers for help on building, planting, dancing,
talking, expirience exchange, for all that need to be done in order to establish
permacultural education centres.... On a few places there are ecovillagers seeked that
want to contribute to the ecovillage movement and live in future ecovilages. We give
informations on the e-mail info@ekosela.org please include your short CV and previous
expirience.

Donations in form of money, work, equipment etc are welcome!

14
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006
 Publications of member organizations and impressum
Publications of the Network:
Web pages

www.ekosela.org

(free for download 4 cro brochures: GNAG - Bruno

Motik: Green energy; 'Basics of bio gardening and
bio farming' Croatian center 'Knowledge for
Nature' 1997. Tutors Sonja Karoglan Todorović
and Dubravka Malić; 'Seed collection and
preservation' Croatian center 'Knowledge for
Nature' 1995. autor Božica Papeš Mokos;
'Tradicional orchard', Croatian center 'Knowledge
for Nature' Zagreb 1996. autor Božica Papeš
Mokos

Multimedial CD ROM (cro) with information about

members, activities, broshures...
Info and orders on info@ekosela.org
Publicatons of members:
GNAG & What do you read?
"Permaculture - a beginners guide", Graham
Burnett;
“Wormfarming", Stjepan Mandek
Info and orders on zmag@zmag.hr
Eko center Latinovac:
Hwosch productions: 'Beyond These Narrow
Borders' Seedlings of Peace Summer Camp in
the Balkans - a DVD video journey into
reconciliation in a post war region… languages -
English & Serbo/Croatian
Subtitles - English, Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian,
German
This publication ia s result of the project “Balkan
Ecovillage Network - capacity building for
sustainability of the Network” that is lead by the
Society for culture and living in harmony with nature
'Kneja' p.p.170, 40001 Čakovec, Croatia,
www.kneja.hr, kneja@kneja.hr The project is granted
by USAID through AED. This is a free e-publication of
the Balkan Ecovillage Network.
This study /report/audio/visual/other information/media product (specify) is
made possible by the generous support of the American people through the
support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID),
under the terms of Cooperative Agreement USAID CA#160-A-00-01-00109-
00, through CroNGO Project, operated by the Academy for Educational
Development (AED). The contents are the responsibility of Balkan Ecovillage
Network and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United
States Government.

Info and orders on branka@latinovac.org

Ecopark Pernat

'Old maps of the island Cres', Mirela Altić

fore languages (cro. it. germ. eng.)
'Bread ovens on the penninsula Pernat'
Marina Jurkota-Rebrović
Info and orders on c.o.r@ri.htnet.hr

Kneja

Multimedial eko edu CD for kids and adult kids

www.kneja.hr/Pika

Info and orders on kneja@kneja.hr

15
Balkan Ecovillage Network, spring 2006