World Environment Day reminds us that nature needs our protection – it is our shared responsibility to care for it and take action so we can make a difference together.
Young Researchers of Serbia recently organized a volunteer action in the Special Nature Reserve “Obedska Bara,” in cooperation with the company UNIQA Insurance. This area holds great significance for protecting biodiversity, and we deeply appreciate its vital role in our environment.
Obedska Bara is one of the most valuable wetland areas in Serbia and the second oldest protected natural site in the world. It is located in the region of Srem, just 40 kilometres from Belgrade. As a Ramsar site, it holds international significance not only due to its rich biodiversity but also because of the vital functions it provides for the entire community — it acts as a natural water purifier, helps mitigate flood risks, and preserves the balance of wetland habitats, which are increasingly threatened by climate change.
UNIQA’s volunteers spent their workday in this precious and sensitive ecosystem — a sanctuary for many insects, amphibians, fish, and birds, most of which are rare, endangered, and protected helping install a special fence for water buffaloes. These animals play an important role in maintaining the natural balance of Obedska Bara.
Why a fence — and why water buffaloes?
After several decades, water buffaloes returned to Obedska Bara about six months ago as part of a nature-based solution. Their grazing helps control invasive plant species, maintains the habitat mosaic necessary for the survival of numerous rare species, and contributes to the restoration of biodiversity. To keep these valuable animals safe and properly guided within the wetland habitat, it is necessary to install special fences that must be adjusted over time to allow the animals to move freely while still being protected.
This is the task that UNIQA Insurance Company’s volunteers eagerly took on, equipped with tools, enthusiasm, and team spirit. Working in such environment, surrounded by swarms of relentless mosquitoes, was no easy task. However, through careful planning, dedication, and team spirit, the employees rose to the challenge. They efficiently installed the wooden posts and set up wire holders, completing the fence by the end of the day!
Working together for nature
“We are grateful that UNIQA recognized the value of our long-term efforts in environmental protection and decided to join us in our shared mission to preserve nature, allowing their employees to spend a workday volunteering in the field. We believe this is just the beginning of our collaboration, and we invite other companies, institutions, and individuals to listen to the needs of their communities and get involved in activities that contribute to protecting the environment. Only by joining forces can we can restore nature’s balance and create a healthier environment for everyone,” said Tijana Ljubenović, Program Coordinator at Young Researchers of Serbia.
During the volunteer action, employees had the opportunity to learn more about the value of this exceptional nature reserve. During their visit, they enjoyed a boat ride, walked through the habitat, and engaged in birdwatching. With the guidance of the protected area managers from “Vojvodinasume,” they learned why Obedska Bara is one of the most important habitats for a variety of plant and animal species, earning its reputation as a true “paradise for wetland birds.”
They also witnessed just how much effort, care, and teamwork is required to preserve the natural balance. That is precisely why actions like these, aimed at at protected areas of nature, are so important – they remind us of the values represented by World Environment Day: caring for ecosystems, preserving biodiversity, and recognizing the essential role of each individual in protecting nature.
