The Tourist Board of the historic town of Nin has been awarded significant financial resources for the implementation of an ambitious project aimed at preserving an invaluable natural treasury. The initiative, which bears the symbolic name "Let's Celebrate the 1100th Anniversary of the Croatian Kingdom - Let's Preserve Queen's Beach", has received support through dm's renowned competition "Together for Green Ideas 2025". This project represents a crucial step in protecting the unique natural heritage of the Nin Lagoon, raising awareness about the importance of NATURA 2000 habitats, and implementing a comprehensive ecological action with the aim of achieving long-term positive effects on the environment.

Synergy for a Cleaner Future: Major Ecological Action on Queen's Beach

In partnership with the company dm, during June of this year, 2025, a major joint clean-up action is planned. The participation of numerous local enthusiasts and dm volunteers is expected, who will join forces to clean the coastal area of the widely known Queen's Beach. This beach, a pearl of the Nin Riviera, unfortunately faces the problem of discarded cigarette butts in the sand, while the green belt in its hinterland is often polluted by plastic bags and other wind-borne waste. Therefore, this action will be focused on the thorough removal of such waste, with the aim of restoring the beach to its original splendor. Visitors looking for accommodation in Nin will surely appreciate cleaner and tidier beaches.

It is particularly important to emphasize that the project will finance the installation of four modern information panels. These panels will not only serve to educate visitors about the importance of environmental conservation but will also be equipped with four dispensers for disposable, biodegradable ashtrays. Through this component of the project, the distribution of as many as 8000 biodegradable ashtrays is planned, which represents a concrete and significant contribution to reducing pollution from cigarette butts. This approach not only directly addresses the waste problem but also promotes responsible behavior among beach visitors. The long-term goal is to create an even more pleasant and environmentally friendly environment for both the local population and the many tourists who visit Nin.

Spreading Awareness and Good Practices: Future Plans for Nin's Beaches

The initiative will not stop only at Queen's Beach. There is a clear plan to continue project activities on other beaches in the wider area of the Town of Nin. A key element of these future activities will be the continuous raising of public awareness about the harmfulness of throwing cigarette butts on sandy beaches and in nature in general. Educational campaigns and practical measures, such as the distribution of biodegradable ashtrays, should become standard on all bathing areas, thereby ensuring the long-term sustainability and cleanliness of this valuable coastal area. The preservation of natural beauty is crucial for the further development of tourism in Nin.

Queen's Beach: More Than Sand and Sea

Queen's Beach, located in the heart of the Nin Lagoon, is not just an ordinary bathing spot. About three kilometers long, this sandy oasis is considered one of the most beautiful and famous beaches in Croatia, and its name is shrouded in history and legend. According to tradition, the wife of the first Croatian king, Tomislav, Queen Jelena, was particularly enchanted by the beauty of this beach and often stayed here with her royal entourage. The beach is known for its fine, soft sand and extremely shallow sea, making it ideal for families with small children. The gentle slope of the seabed allows for carefree enjoyment of swimming and playing in the shallows. However, its value transcends mere tourist attraction; it is an integral part of the sensitive ecosystem of the Nin Lagoon.

The Nin Lagoon: A Jewel of Nature Under Protection

Immediately next to Queen's Beach lies the area of medicinal Nin mud, also known as peloid. This mud, whose healing properties have been used since Roman times, is recognized as one of the 94 botanically important areas (IPA5) in the territory of the Republic of Croatia. Its application for therapeutic purposes, especially for rheumatic and skin diseases, attracts numerous visitors to Nin. The entire area of the Nin Lagoon, including Queen's Beach and the medicinal mud sites, is protected within the European ecological network NATURA 2000. Specifically, the wider area around the Nin Bay is listed under the number HR4000005. This protection applies to specific muddy and sandy habitats that are home to numerous endemic and rare plant species, such as the Nin sea holly (Echinophora spinosa), and serve as a crucial resting and feeding ground for a large number of bird species, especially waders during their migrations. The preservation of these habitats is of crucial importance for maintaining the biodiversity of the entire area.

The NATURA 2000 Ecological Network and Its Significance

NATURA 2000 represents the largest coordinated network of protected areas in the world, extending across all member states of the European Union. Its fundamental goal is not to exclude human activities but to ensure that the management of these areas is carried out in a sustainable manner, in order to preserve endangered species and habitat types of European importance in the long term. The inclusion of the Nin Lagoon in this network confirms its exceptional ecological value and imposes an obligation to implement protection and conservation measures. The project "Let's Celebrate the 1100th Anniversary of the Croatian Kingdom - Let's Preserve Queen's Beach" directly contributes to these goals, focusing on reducing pollution and public education.

The Problem of Cigarette Butts and Plastic on Beaches

Pollution of beaches by cigarette butts and plastic waste is a global problem with serious consequences for the environment and human health. Cigarette butts, often perceived as small and harmless waste, are actually one of the most common forms of litter on the world's beaches. Their filters are made of cellulose acetate, a type of plastic that takes decades to decompose, and during this process, they release harmful chemicals and microplastics into the environment. Plastic bags, bottles, and other plastic items also pose a major threat to marine organisms that can ingest them or become entangled in them. Therefore, initiatives such as installing dispensers for biodegradable ashtrays and organizing clean-up actions are extremely important for mitigating this problem. The use of biodegradable ashtrays reduces the input of non-degradable plastic into sensitive coastal ecosystems.

Celebrating a Great Anniversary Through Care for Heritage

The name of the project, "Let's Celebrate the 1100th Anniversary of the Croatian Kingdom - Let's Preserve Queen's Beach," is not accidental. The year 2025 marks an important jubilee – 1100 years since the coronation of King Tomislav and the establishment of the Croatian Kingdom. Linking this significant national anniversary with a project for the preservation of natural heritage in Nin, a town that prides itself on the title of the oldest Croatian royal town, gives the initiative additional symbolic weight. Caring for natural beauties like Queen's Beach, which bears a name related to Croatian kings, thus also becomes a way of preserving national identity and historical heritage for future generations.

A Call for Unity and Responsibility

The Tourist Board of the Town of Nin expresses its deep gratitude to dm for recognizing the value of the project and the trust placed in them. This collaboration opens the door to jointly beautifying the Nin coast and demonstrating collective care for a clean and preserved nature. In this spirit, an open invitation is extended to all citizens, local associations, volunteers, and nature lovers to actively participate in the planned actions. Because, as the organizers emphasize, only through joint efforts and dedication is it possible to make a significant and visible difference compared to the current situation and ensure that natural pearls like Queen's Beach remain preserved for the future. Environmental protection is the responsibility of every individual, and projects like this provide an opportunity to translate that responsibility into concrete actions. Every visitor who chooses Nin as their destination can contribute to preserving its beauty.

All detailed information about the exact date of the major clean-up action in June, as well as how to register and participate, will be published in a timely manner by the Tourist Board of the Town of Nin. A large turnout is expected, confirming that awareness of the need for environmental protection is growing and that there is a strong will for active contribution. The support of the entire community is crucial for the success of this commendable project and for the long-term assurance of the cleanliness and beauty of Nin's beaches and the Nin Lagoon.

The importance of such initiatives is also recognized in the broader context of sustainable tourism, which Nin strives for. Preserved nature is not only a prerequisite for a quality life for the local population but also a fundamental resource for a tourist offer that attracts visitors seeking authentic experiences and untouched nature. The Queen's Beach preservation project is therefore not just an ecological action, but also an investment in the future of tourism in Nin, based on the principles of sustainability and responsibility towards natural heritage.

The Tourist Board of the Town of Nin proudly announces that it has been awarded significant financial resources for the implementation of a project aimed at preserving invaluable natural heritage. The funds were secured through dm's renowned competition "Together for Green Ideas 2025," and the project bears the symbolic name "Let's Celebrate the 1100th Anniversary of the Croatian Kingdom - Let's Preserve Queen's Beach." This commendable endeavor has multiple objectives: primarily, the protection and preservation of the unique ecosystem of the Nin Lagoon, then raising public awareness and education about the importance of NATURA 2000 habitats, which represent the European ecological network of the most valuable natural areas, and organizing a comprehensive ecological action with concrete and long-term positive effects on the environment. Cooperation with dm, as a proven partner in promoting sustainable development and green initiatives, is key to the success of this project.

Major Ecological Action and Long-Term Vision for Clean Beaches in Nin

As part of the project, during June 2025, a large joint clean-up action is planned. This event will bring together the local population, representatives of the Tourist Board of the Town of Nin, volunteers from dm, and all other nature lovers. The focus of the action will be on the thorough cleaning of the coastal area of the world-famous Queen's Beach. Unfortunately, the sand of this beautiful beach, which rightly bears the epithet of one of the most beautiful on the Adriatic, is often polluted with cigarette butts. Likewise, the green belt in the hinterland of the beach often becomes a dumping ground for plastic bags and other wind-borne waste. Therefore, volunteers will join forces to remove this waste, thus contributing to a more beautiful and healthier environment. Those who wish to support this action and spend a few days in this historic town can explore various accommodation options in Nin.

An extremely important segment of the project relates to the installation of four modern information panels. These panels will not only serve as a source of information about the natural values of the area and the importance of their preservation but will also be equipped with four practical dispensers for disposable, biodegradable ashtrays. Through this activity, the distribution of as many as 8000 environmentally friendly ashtrays is planned. This move represents a significant step forward in the fight against pollution from cigarette butts, which are one of the most common forms of waste on beaches and extremely harmful to the marine ecosystem. The goal is to create a cleaner environment for all residents and numerous visitors to Nin, and to ensure that Queen's Beach retains its status as a pearl of nature. The initiative does not stop only at Queen's Beach; the project envisages the continuation of activities on other beaches in the administrative area of the Town of Nin. The long-term goal is to raise ecological awareness and change habits, in order to reduce the amount of waste, especially cigarette butts, on all of Nin's sandy shores.

Queen's Beach – Symbol of Nin and Natural Gem

Queen's Beach, with its impressive three kilometers of fine sand, is not only a tourist attraction but also a place of rich history and legends. It is considered one of the longest and most beautiful sandy beaches in Croatia, and its name, according to tradition, dates back to the time of the first Croatian king, Tomislav. Legend says that it was on this beach that the queen enjoyed the beauties of the Nin region with her family, and the view from the beach to the Velebit mountain is breathtaking. The gentle slope and shallow, warm sea make it ideal for families with small children. However, in addition to its aesthetic and recreational value, Queen's Beach is an inseparable part of the wider ecosystem of the Nin Lagoon.

The Nin Lagoon: Treasury of Biodiversity and Healing Treasure

Immediately next to Queen's Beach is the site of the world-famous medicinal Nin mud, peloid. This area is not only touristically interesting but also scientifically recognized as one of the 94 botanically important areas (IPA5) in the Republic of Croatia. The healing properties of Nin mud have been known for centuries and are used for therapeutic purposes to alleviate various rheumatic, dermatological, and other health problems. Open-air therapy, which includes applying mud, sunbathing, and swimming in the sea, attracts numerous visitors seeking natural methods of treatment and relaxation.

The entire area of the Nin Lagoon, including Queen's Beach and the medicinal mud site, is protected within the European ecological network NATURA 2000. Specifically, the wider area around Nin Bay is classified as a NATURA 2000 area under the number HR4000005. This protection applies to specific and sensitive muddy and sandy habitats that are home to numerous rare and endangered plant species, including endemic species adapted to saline conditions. The Nin Lagoon is also an extremely important area for birds, especially waders, which use it as a resting place during migrations or as a nesting site. The preservation of these habitats is of vital importance for the survival of numerous species and the maintenance of ecological balance. Visitors who come to explore the natural beauties of Nin are often amazed by the richness of plant and animal life.

Ecological Challenges: Cigarette Butts and Plastic as a Threat

Despite its natural beauty and ecological significance, the Nin Lagoon and its beaches face the problem of pollution. Cigarette butts, often carelessly discarded in the sand, pose a serious threat. Cigarette filters contain plastic (cellulose acetate) which decomposes extremely slowly in nature, releasing harmful chemicals and microplastics into the environment. These toxic substances can pollute soil and water, endangering plant and animal life, including marine organisms. Similarly, plastic bags and other plastic waste, carried by wind or waves, spoil the appearance of beaches and pose a danger to animals that can ingest them or become entangled in them. Therefore, initiatives like the project "Let's Celebrate the 1100th Anniversary of the Croatian Kingdom - Let's Preserve Queen's Beach" are of crucial importance for mitigating these negative impacts.

The Importance of Biodegradable Ashtrays and Education

The introduction of biodegradable ashtrays is an innovative and practical step in reducing the problem of cigarette butts. Unlike conventional ashtrays or, even worse, throwing cigarette butts directly into the environment, biodegradable ashtrays are made from materials that decompose naturally without harmful consequences. By distributing 8000 such ashtrays, along with installing information panels, the aim is to educate smokers about the harmfulness of their habits to the environment and offer them a sustainable solution. Raising awareness that cigarette butts do not belong on a sandy beach is key to long-term behavioral change and preserving the cleanliness of beaches for future generations. This project in Nin serves as an example of good practice.

Link to a Major National Jubilee

The name of the project "Let's Celebrate the 1100th Anniversary of the Croatian Kingdom - Let's Preserve Queen's Beach" is not accidental. The year 2025 marks an important jubilee – 1100 years since the coronation of King Tomislav and the establishment of the Croatian Kingdom (925-2025). By linking the ecological initiative with this significant historical event, the Tourist Board of the Town of Nin wants to emphasize the deep connection of the Croatian people with its natural and cultural heritage. The preservation of Queen's Beach, which bears a name related to Croatian kings, thus also becomes a symbolic act of preserving national identity and historical heritage. The town of Nin, as the oldest Croatian royal town, is an ideal place for such an initiative that connects the past, present, and future.

A Call for Unity and Volunteerism

The Tourist Board of the Town of Nin expresses its deep gratitude to dm for recognizing the value of this project and the trust and financial support provided. They look forward to the opportunity to jointly beautify the Nin coast and demonstrate dedication to preserving a clean and healthy nature. In this way, a cordial invitation is extended to all citizens, local associations, environmental activists, and volunteers to join the planned clean-up action in June. Every individual can make a contribution, because only through joint efforts is it possible to achieve significant changes and make a big difference compared to the current state of pollution. Information about the exact date of the action, as well as details on how to register and participate, will be published in a timely manner through the official channels of the Tourist Board of the Town of Nin and project partners. The organizers thank everyone in advance for their expressed support and response, and eagerly await the meeting at the action that will contribute to a more beautiful and cleaner Nin.

This project will not only result in a cleaner Queen's Beach, but will also serve as an incentive for further ecological initiatives and strengthening awareness of the necessity of responsible behavior towards nature, which is the most valuable resource of the Nin region. The preservation of the unique Nin Lagoon and its natural beauties is a pledge for the future and the sustainable development of tourism in this historic Croatian town.