Brussels, 3 February 2021,
On 18 January, the European Commission launched the new European Bauhaus initiative. Through this programme, citizens, experts and business across disciplines will be brought together to collaborate towards a sustainable, inclusive and innovative society. The project aims to provide a bridge between the world of science and technology and the world of art and culture.
In a letter to Commissioner Gabriel, Željana Zovko asked to extend the scope of the initiative by also focusing on the safety of constructions and architecture. After the recent tragic earthquakes that damaged great parts of Central Croatia, Zagreb and its surroundings, many families lost their homes. Zovko said that there is a general need to develop construction processes that would render buildings more resistant.
The EU created its RescEU mechanism to respond to natural and manmade disasters. In addition to crisis management, the instrument focuses on preparedness and prevention. According to Zovko, the the Bauhaus initiative should find the necessary synergies with RescEU in order to anticipate future disasters, such as earthquakes, floods and fires.
Zovko called for the establishment of pilot projects, preferably in Croatia, focusing on building requirements and conditions. She said that rebuilding the damaged regions in Croatia offers ample possibilities for joint European creativity and engineering and can lead to new prospects for a more sustainable future in these critical areas. Apart from the aesthetics and creativity, the Bauhaus projects should also provide safety and protection to our citizens.