The commemoration of Earth Day is of the utmost relevance today, especially in the context of ecology and the state of the environment. This event aims to draw attention to the consequences of environmental destruction and to create a discussion for a common solution to climate problems.

With this goal in mind, the Technical University of Košice (TUKE) in cooperation with the Košice Municipal Greenery Administration (SMsZ) organised a charity event called Earth Day at TUKE on Friday, 21 April 2023.

The event was opened by the Vice-Rector Prof. Anton Čižmár, who then planted the so-called tree of cooperation between the two institutions together with the Deputy Director of SMsZ. The main activities were planting of trees, flowers and shrubs. Civil engineers designed and implemented a rain garden at their faculty to capture rainwater in the landscape. Mechanical engineers improved the area around the PK5 building with new planting. SMsZ arborists carried out expert tree assessment followed by remedial pruning with a high lift platform live in front of the visitors. Mower rides and a presentation of smart fountain management technologies were also among the popular attractions. 

Interesting demonstrations and creative workshops were prepared for the youngest visitors, where they could build a birdhouse, name minerals, pan for gold or try robotic recycling. The first Slovak hydrogen bus was also made available during the event. The Earth Day charity event at TUKE continued and went beyond the city borders. On 26 April 2023, 12 new trees and over 100 perennials and ornamental greenery were planted on the grounds of the TUKE Teaching and Training Facility in Herľany. With this planting, TUKE maintains and enhances the conservation area around the unique Herľany geyser.

We would like to thank everyone who participated in any way and emphasised the need to protect the environment.

In conclusion, the words that were used by the Košice Municipal Greenery Administration on its social profile to sum up the joint action: "The Earth Day in cooperation with the Technical University of Košice and UVP TECHNICOM turned out beyond expectations. The enthusiasm of the visitors and students recharged our batteries as well. We believe that not only the pleasant moments, but also the new information and acquired skills will be used by the participants to support the protection of nature and our planet, because every small step counts."

Media info:
RTVS: https://www.rtvs.sk/televizia/archiv/13982/398507#1890 
TERAZ.sk: https://www.teraz.sk/kosicky-kraj/pocas-dna-zeme-v-areali-tuke-vysadza/709335-clanok.html
TASR: https://www.tasr.sk/tasr-clanok/TASR:2023042100000256