We present to you an overview of the sustainable development activities we implemented in 2024.
The Brežice destination is firmly committed to sustainable tourism development, striving for holistic management of resources, the environment, and the local community. Since 2018, it has been part of the Slovenian Green Tourism Scheme, and in 2022, it proudly received the highest recognition – the Slovenia Green Destination Platinum label.
Green Providers and Commitment to Sustainability
Currently, 13 providers in the destination have committed to sustainability by joining the Green Scheme. These include renowned restaurants, tourist farms, and accommodations that meet high environmental standards through international certifications such as Green Key and Slovenia Green.
A major milestone was also the inclusion of Terme Čatež, the largest Slovenian thermal resort, which joined the Green Scheme and received the Slovenia green certificate.
Brežice Izbrano – the Collective Brand
In 2022, the development of the collective brand "Brežice Izbrano" (Brežice Selected) began, uniting producers, caterers, artisans, and other providers under a shared local quality story. By the end of 2024, the system included 29 providers and 129 products, divided into food items, handcrafted products, and culinary creations.
The brand is promoted through event participation, digital info-kiosks, social media, and a yearly catalog. Unique events like the Castle Masked Dinner, Martin’s Dinner at Martin’s, and the Easter Market helped promote local products and strengthen the local economy.
International Recognition – Among the TOP 100 Stories
For the second year in a row, Brežice was ranked among the Top 100 Green Destinations Stories globally. The story "From Waste to Opportunity," linked to the Brežice City Promenade, impressed the professional audience and served as a best-practice example.
Brežice City Promenade – A Sustainable Event
In 2024, the Promenade became the first event in Slovenia to receive the Zero Waste Event label with two stars. Key sustainable practices included reusable cups, 95.56% waste separation, creative cigarette disposal boxes, a public water fountain in the shape of the Water Tower, and a "green guard" of volunteers.
The event also featured 10 international volunteers from five countries, who added an intercultural dimension and demonstrated the importance of global cooperation for sustainability.
Education and Sustainable Awareness
In 2024, ZPTM Brežice organized numerous educations for providers – from lean business principles to creative tourism and service quality. In cooperation with RDA Posavje, expert workshops covered topics such as carbon footprint, waste management at events, and online tourism marketing.
Career Fairs and Mobility Promotion
To promote tourism-related careers, the Youth Center hosted two career fairs in 2024, offering students the chance to meet employers, educational institutions, and entrepreneurs from the tourism sector.
The Municipality of Brežice has participated in the European Mobility Week since 2007. In 2024, it featured events such as Walking Bus, Car-Free Day, Children’s Traffic Show, Cycling Tour from Radeče to Brežice, Mini Olympics, and e-scooter safety training.
Cultural Heritage and Themed Guided Tours
With the development of themed guided tours (Love Route, River Rafting Heritage at Mostec, Elf Trail of Lights), local heritage is presented through stories and riddles, offering visitors a deeper experience.
The year also featured the 1st Brežice European Film Festival and an OHS Award for the Water Tower, with free thematic tours improving accessibility for vulnerable groups.
