SOLYMÁR GROUNDSQUIRREL RESERVE AND VISITORS' CENTER
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HOW IS SHOPPING RELATED TO ANIMAL PROTECTION?
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Solymár, Hungary 
Client: CEETRUS
1,6 ha 
Project: Land development -
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A nature- friendly venue and fun experience for all
"We believe that the fact that the Ground Squirrel Reserve and Visitors' Center is located in the Solymár Auchan Commercial Center, next to the shopping center we operate, gives customers the combine shopping with hiking and get closer to nature”
Dóra Diána Szemerédi, Head of CSR and International Communication -
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The project
As a responsible company, we believe it is important that we play our part in shaping a more sustainable future and develop our clients' portfolios in a responsible, exemplary, value-adding and innovative way. This approach is also exemplified by the Ground Squirrel Reserve, Visitors’ Centre and Gene Bank in Solymár. The six-hectare development area managed by Nhood Hungary, which also give home to the Solymár Auchan Korzó, has seen the emergence and proliferation of ground squirrels, a species of high conservation concern throughout Europe, as the population is threatened with extinction. Recognizing this, our company, with the help of experts, decided to take action for the survival of the animal population in the interests of nature conservation and in accordance with its code of ethics of social responsibility, and therefore built the Ground Squirrel Reserve (a.k.a. Ürgerét).
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We wanted to make it eco-friendly, so we created a 16,000 m2 fenced area where, thanks to regular mowing, we managed to naturally reintroduce the ground squirrel population. The creation of the Ground Squirrel Reserve has provided a safe place for these small and friendly animals to live and breed in our park, and for researchers to monitor their development. The creation of the “Ürgerét” has been welcomed by the local city administration, as well as the relevant authorities and social organizations.
We wanted it to be educational and community-building, so we created a visitor centre next to the park where families, kindergarten and school children can see and learn about ground squirrels, or where people can meet up and have inspiration days. A footpath has been added for pedestrians to comfortably access the venue, while a camera system helps to monitor the animals.
We wanted to create a fun experience that complements shopping, so through our online and offline platforms we promote that a visit to the Solymár Auchan Korzó can be combined with a walk in a beautiful environment to study nature. This way, the Ground Squirrel Reserve can also increase the Solymár Auchan Korzó footfall. -
3 reasons to be proud of Solymár Ground Squirrel Reserve:
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An eco-responsible projectRestoring biodiversity and local ecosystems
Protecting the local ground squirrel population
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A participatory projectA place supporting recreation and nature studies
Community building and fun activity for shoppers
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A citizens’ projectA place for all: families, young people and the elderly
Setting an example for future generations
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Contact us ! -
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