20/10/2026
Meet Ranko, a tourism expert working at Tara National Park, Serbia 🇷🇸
Ranko is responsible for information, promotion, education, and tourism activities. He is also a mountain guide, trail runner, and race organiser, dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles, the importance of nature and its protection, and the sustainable use of natural resources.
Why does Trails for Change -project matter to you personally, beyond the job?
"Trails and the outdoors are an inseparable part of my routine, and sometimes it is hard to separate my private and professional life. I might not be on the trail every day for work, but I am in my free time. Therefore, as a direct user of the trails, I believe the results of this project will help establish standards and mechanisms for sustainable trail use and management."
What's one thing most people get wrong about trail sustainability?
"There is a widespread perception that trails are a given and do not require maintenance, or that using them cannot lead to their degradation and the endangerment of the ecosystem. However, as with everything, balance is needed, a defined carrying capacity, a use and management strategy, and rules of use in order to preserve the trails and their surrounding habitats."
What's a small change any hiker or biker could make to protect the trails they love?
"For a start, bikers, runners, and hikers should be aware of their responsibility and role in preserving these resources. The least they can do is stay on designated trails and avoid damaging habitats by making noise, picking plants, or disturbing animals. Not only should they avoid leaving waste behind, but they should also make an effort to pick up and pack out at least one piece of trash during their time on the trails."
ℹ Trails for Change unites partners from eight countries to build a more sustainable future for outdoor sports. Learn more at suomenlatu.fi/en/trails-for-change
🇪🇺 Co-funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ Sport Programme.
