

Montenegro's Urban Garden: Where Community and Sustainability Bloom
Podgorica's Thriving Urban Oasis: A Community Garden Built on Sustainability and Shared Effort Podgorica, Montenegro – In the heart of this bustling city, a unique urban garden is flourishing, proving that sustainable living and community spirit can thrive even amidst concrete structures. The garden, a testament to the power of collective action, utilizes the no-dig method, reducing soil disturbance and promoting biodiversity. Over 200 volunteers, ranging in age from toddlers to an 86-year-old woman, dedicate their time and energy to cultivate the land. "This is the largest urban garden in Europe," explains Ana Vukovic, a volunteer, highlighting the scope of the project. The garden boasts over 300 saplings of various fruit, nut, and ornamental trees, as well as a greenhouse for year-round leafy greens. The volunteers also practice composting, recycling organic waste into natural fertilizer. The garden's produce is not only a source of healthy food for the community, but also a means of supporting those in need. Ekaterina, a young volunteer, shares her motivation: "I like to help here because I know that the food we grow will help people in need." The sense of community is palpable, as evidenced by the youngest volunteers, who are brought by their parents, and the oldest, who actively participates in the effort. The garden is more than just a source of food; it's a space for connection, collaboration, and the creation of a more sustainable and eco-conscious community. It shows that even in a city, a green oasis can flourish, nurturing both the land and the human spirit.