Home Blog

What’s New in the ESG Landscape of the European Union

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (artem beliaikin)

In recent months, several decisions have been published that are reshaping the European approach to sustainability across various sectors, while some previously adopted measures will begin to apply in the new year. It appears that the European Union is simultaneously accelerating investments in new technologies, introducing controls on environmental marketing claims, adjusting regulatory frameworks to the economy, and continuing discussions on long-term climate objectives.

Unproven Carbon-Neutral Flights Under Scrutiny

The European Consumer Organization (BEUC) has been challenging airline claims that flights can be sustainable. Following a 2023 complaint submitted to the European Commission and the Consumer Protection Cooperation Network (CPC), BEUC documented that messaging around carbon-neutral flights and the possibility of offsetting emissions through contributions for tree planting or alternative fuel development is, in effect, misleading to consumers.

In cooperation with its 23 national member consumer organizations, BEUC presented evidence that such claims violate EU rules on unfair commercial practices, as offsets do not actually eliminate emissions and sustainable aviation fuels account for only a symbolic share of overall fuel consumption. Their reports showed that greenwashing remained widespread, prompting an investigation and months-long dialogue with airlines.

The most recent outcome of this dialogue was published in a European Commission statement on 6 November 2025. According to the announcement, 21 European airlines have agreed to revise how they use environmental claims in their marketing.

Agreed Changes for Airlines As outlined in the Commission’s communication, airlines must make clear that the CO2 emissions of a given flight cannot be neutralized, directly reduced, or compensated simply through passengers’ financial contributions to, for example, climate projects. This does not dispute the potential positive effects of such projects, but rather the notion that a single flight can thereby become emission-free or climate neutral, as emissions still occur.

Airlines will thus need to avoid vague green expressions—such as “eco-friendly travel”—or any wording that suggests a flight is significantly less harmful to the climate without adequate explanation and proof.

The use of the term sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) will be allowed, but must be accompanied by proper clarification and evidence. When referring to future goals, such as achieving net-zero emissions, airlines will be expected to specify timeframes and, for example, the scope of emissions targeted.

Furthermore, all CO2 calculations presented to passengers must be displayed clearly and transparently, ensuring that travelers understand what stands behind the figures shown for their flights. Ultimately, the burden of proof shifts to the companies, which must substantiate their environmental claims before presenting them publicly.

IN FOCUS:

Combating Misleading Green Claims

Another measure relevant to consumers is Directive (EU) 2024/825, published in 2024 and set to become mandatory across all EU Member States in September 2026. Through this directive, the European Union amends two existing regulations—Directive 2005/29/EC on unfair commercial practices and Directive 2011/83/EU on consumer rights—to ensure that consumers can make truly sustainable and well-informed decisions.

Directive (EU) 2024/825 introduces additional rules to counter misleading green claims and marketing practices that mislead consumers into making incorrect choices. Practices such as intentionally shortening a product’s lifespan to encourage more frequent purchases, using vague or inaccurate environmental assertions (greenwashing), providing false information about corporate social responsibility, or relying on unverified and unreliable sustainability labels are largely not accidental.

Advertising benefits that sound positive but are irrelevant to the product itself—and therefore capable of misleading consumers—will be prohibited. The examples cited in the directive clearly illustrate this: stating that a particular brand of bottled water is gluten-free, or that paper sheets contain no plastic, may be technically accurate, but such messages offer no real value to consumers. Instead, they create a false impression of distinction, even though the characteristics in question are common to all products of that type.

Strict rules are also being set for sustainability labels. Only labels issued by publicly available, credible certification schemes or by a public authority will be allowed. Each eco-label must have clear criteria, transparency, and independent verification of compliance to eliminate arbitrary, self-created eco-tags.

One common and particularly misleading practice addressed by the directive is presenting an entire product or company as environmentally responsible when, in reality, only a small portion of it is sustainable. The directive provides explicit examples: a product advertised as made from recycled materials when only the packaging is recycled, or a retailer that implies exclusive use of renewable energy while some of its facilities still operate on fossil fuels. Such practices will be considered deceptive in pursuit of a broader goal: preventing unsubstantiated green marketing.

Regulatory Easing

Contrary to the common perception that the European Union continuously introduces new regulatory obligations, the Omnibus I package represents a phase of correction and adjustment to current economic conditions. Over the past years, companies, investors, and the public have warned that the scope of specific ESG regulations creates high costs and difficulties, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. In response, the European Parliament endorsed several proposals to adjust the scope of certain rules to ease the regulatory burden on smaller economic actors.

In legislative terms, the essence of Omnibus I is to consolidate, within a single legislative package, amendments to the CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive), adjustments to the CSDDD (Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive), and technical modifications to the CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism).

A particularly important part of the package concerns CBAM. One of the key updates is the introduction of a new exemption threshold of 50 tons per year for goods subject to CBAM. This means that companies importing less than this amount will be fully exempt from reporting obligations and from purchasing CBAM certificates. According to estimates by the European Commission, this amendment will relieve as many as 182,000 importers—primarily small and medium-sized enterprises and individual businesses—while still covering more than 99 percent of the emissions that CBAM is intended to regulate.

Prepared by: Milica Vučković

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINNES

 

NIS Agrees on Crude Oil Imports via JANAF, Restart of Pančevo Refinery Expected Soon

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Waldemar Brandt)

Naftna industrija Srbije (NIS) has agreed on the import of the first quantities of crude oil via the Adriatic Pipeline (JANAF), creating the conditions for the restart of production at the Pančevo Oil Refinery.

According to the company’s statement, the first quantities of crude oil are expected to be delivered during the coming week, while NIS is simultaneously planning the import of additional volumes. In line with the delivery dynamics, the company will begin start-up activities at the Pančevo refinery, which precede the full restart of production facilities.

Operations at the Pančevo Oil Refinery were suspended in early December last year due to a lack of crude oil for processing, caused by sanctions imposed on NIS by the United States Department of the Treasury.

More:

However, the situation has been partially resolved after the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued a special license to NIS on December 31, 2025, allowing the company to resume operational activities until January 23 of this year.

The license covers the restart of refining operations, the import of crude oil, as well as the execution of transactions necessary to ensure secure market supply and the technical maintenance of facilities.

Energy portal

Paper Magic: When Creativity Brings Old Books to Life

Photo: Courtesy of Irena Popović

It all began on a holiday evening, among old books that were waiting for their final journey to the recycling container. In those yellowed pages, Irena Popović found an idea — not in the text, but in the material itself. Wanting to decorate her home differently, she began experimenting with paper, shaping it and searching for forms that had existed only in her imagination.

She could not have imagined that a few simple decorations would bring so much delight to her family and friends, nor that this moment would mark the beginning of something greater. Today, Paper Magic stands behind hundreds of customers, a community that supports her work, and a mission that brings together art, sustainability, and humanity.

The real turning point came when her older son returned from his studies in England and saw what his mother was creating.

“He suggested that we open a Paper Magic page so that I could present my handmade creations to a wider audience,” she says. The support of those closest to her proved crucial — a hobby grew into a brand, and the brand into a community.

IN FOCUS:

Art and Recycling Combined

At the heart of this brand lies a clear environmental message: old books should not end up as waste.

“People often have old, damaged, or unwanted books they no longer use, and we give them new life by turning them into decorative objects,” Irena explains.

Most of the materials come from donations — from friends, neighbors, and even complete strangers who want their books to continue living on. The rest are found at markets and flea markets, where copies that are no longer suitable for reading are often discovered, yet are perfect for artistic transformation.

Although Irena does not use industrially recycled paper, her creations represent recycling in its noblest sense: they prevent waste, encourage creativity, and create added value.

Irena’s decorations most often find their way to women who appreciate handicrafts, personalized gifts, and items that tell a story. This is precisely why customers frequently return.

“Many emphasize their delight with the attention to detail, the quality of craftsmanship, and the fact that each piece has its own story. A large number of customers return to purchase new products, which speaks to the trust we are building. In addition, word-of-mouth recommendations are very common, which for us is the best sign that the emotion and effort we invest reach those for whom the decorations are intended,” says Irena, adding that her greatest reward is messages of gratitude and photos of the decorations in their new homes.

Prepared by: Milena Maglovski

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINNES

Air Pollution Claims Nearly 7 Million Lives Worldwide Each Year

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Chris LeBoutillier)

Air pollution represents the single greatest environmental risk to human health and is linked to nearly 7 million premature deaths every year, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO).

WHO estimates show that as many as 89 percent of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, primarily in Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific—regions considered among the most polluted in the world. The most affected countries include Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Nepal, and Mongolia.

Particularly alarming is the fact that half of all deaths in 2020 were associated with indoor air pollution—most often caused by cooking and heating with coal, wood, and biomass. Women and children were the most vulnerable, including more than 237,000 children under the age of five.

The most dangerous pollutants are fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which, due to their small size, can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

More:

History shows how devastating the consequences can be. During the Great London Smog of 1952, pollution caused by coal burning led to more than 12,000 premature deaths in just a few days. Research also indicates that poor air quality threatened human health even in ancient times—lungs of ancient Egyptian mummies showed signs of damage caused by airborne particles, according to IQAir.

Today, the main sources of air pollution include emissions from transport, power plants, industry, agricultural residue burning, and wildfires. In households, inefficient heating and cooking systems pose additional risks. Studies show that in India alone, the number of deaths increases by around 1.5 million each year due to long-term exposure to polluted air.

Experts warn that the pattern is clear: strong measures save lives. Transitioning to clean transport, energy-efficient stoves, better indoor ventilation, and renewable energy sources could significantly reduce premature deaths and extend the life expectancy of millions of people—but only if action is taken in time.

Energy portal

The Green Transition Cannot Be Put on Hold – Erste Bank Launches a Pioneering ESG Model in Serbia

Photo: Erste Bank

At a moment when the world is once again shifting its focus from sustainability to rapid profit, Erste Bank in Serbia is doing the opposite precisely: we remain the most significant financial actor in investments in renewable energy sources while simultaneously introducing a new model of active ESG mentorship for Serbian companies—using our internal resources, without engaging external consultants.

While the global landscape in recent months has increasingly downplayed the importance of ESG standards and attempted to redirect attention solely to profit and short-term goals—often neglecting long-term ones—at Erste Bank, we choose a different path. We believe that capital holds its most significant value when it improves reality—when it drives us toward a sustainable future. We do not wait for these changes to happen on their own—we initiate them.

Our sustainable finance strategy is rooted in the belief that the financial sector plays a key role in accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy. As part of the Erste Group, we are fully aligned with European targets and decarbonization standards, but what we are doing in the domestic market goes beyond the traditional banking approach of simply providing financial resources.

This means we do not observe change from the sidelines—we actively build partnerships with our clients, especially with small and medium-sized enterprises, which bear the greatest burden of shifting to sustainable operations. Recognizing their need for concrete support, we launched a pioneering advisory decarbonization process conducted entirely with our internal expertise.

To begin, we selected 13 clients from various industries across Serbia, held a joint meeting, developed an ESG questionnaire, and conducted a comprehensive analysis for each client. Based on this work, we created personalized ESG roadmaps with clearly defined goals and guidelines, which we will further refine in the coming months through on-site visits. Monitoring of results is planned for 2026.

IN FOCUS:

This approach is intensive, demanding, and fundamentally developmental for us. Still, it strengthens our internal knowledge and raises the standards of the banking sector—not only in Serbia but across the region.

Our engagement, however, does not end there. In cooperation with the UN Global Compact in Serbia, the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, and other participants from various sectors, we took part in a series of autumn educational events in Negotin and Novi Sad. By the end of the year, another session will be held in Čačak, and at the beginning of next year, we plan to visit Valjevo and Šabac. At these workshops, we brought together small and medium-sized enterprises to discuss ESG principles and sustainable business practices—why they matter for them, and the role banks play in the green transition through sustainable finance and educational guidance. By emphasizing the importance of these topics and the benefits of implementing such principles, we demonstrated that the transition cannot be carried out individually—it requires cooperation among all stakeholders, shared learning, and synergy.

As the world faces increasingly frequent climate extremes and their already measurable economic consequences—from pressure on food prices to jeopardized electricity production—it is clear that the green transition is not a trend but a necessity. Any further delay will come at a much higher cost.

In Europe, it is already estimated that extreme weather events will result in at least EUR 43 billion in direct losses this year. Serbia, given its economic structure and energy challenges, cannot afford to fall behind, especially as it ranks first in Europe among countries most affected by the consequences of climate change.

This is why Erste Bank is leading the transition—not only with capital, but with knowledge, people, dialogue, and hands-on work with clients. This is banking that creates value through action and transformation, not by observing from the sidelines.

The path we have chosen is more demanding—but it is the only one that makes sense at this moment.

*Katarina Majić, Senior ESG Specialist, Erste Bank Serbia

*Sanja Prvulović, Medior ESG Specialist, Erste Bank Serbia

Erste Bank

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Brazil Between the Challenges and Opportunities of the Green Transition

Photo: Unsplash/Desert Morocco Adventure

At a time when the world is facing increasingly visible consequences of climate change, Brazil finds itself at a crucial crossroads between strong development ambitions and complex environmental challenges. The protection of the Amazon, the advancement of renewable energy, the development of biofuels, and more sustainable mobility, alongside the fight against deforestation, climate extremes, and social pressures, are simultaneously shaping the country’s path toward a more sustainable future.

Photo: Courtesy of Marija Klara de Abreu Rada

We spoke with the Ambassador of Brazil to Serbia, H.E. Maria Clara de Abreu Rada, about the priorities of Brazil’s climate policy in 2025, the results achieved so far, and the potential for cooperation between Brazil and Serbia. In this interview, she reveals how Brazil is charting its course toward climate neutrality and the role it sees for international partnerships in that transition.

How is Brazil currently advancing its efforts in combating climate change, and what are the government’s priority programs for reducing emissions and preserving the Amazon in 2025?

 Brazil’s 2024 NDC reaffirms the goal of climate neutrality by 2050 and sets a 2035 target of reducing emissions by 59–67 percent below 2005 levels. These commitments are being operationalized through the Ecological Transformation Plan, launched by the federal government in December 2023, which advances a national carbon market, new energy-transition legislation, a Brazilian Sustainable Taxonomy, and an expanded Climate Fund.

Deforestation has declined by around 11 percent in both the Amazon and the Cerrado,⃰ with Amazon loss roughly halved since 2023, driven by tougher enforcement, real-time satellite monitoring linked to rural credit restrictions, and expanded forest finance via the Amazon Fund and the Tropical Forests Forever Facility (a proposed global fund led by Brazil to finance tropical forest conservation permanently). These efforts place strong emphasis on Indigenous territories, forest protection, and a standing-forest” bioeconomy.

Beyond forests, Brazil is accelerating the deployment of renewables, offshore wind, green hydrogen, biofuels, and low-carbon agriculture (ABC+), all supported by green industrial and financial policies designed to align economic development with long-term climate goals.

What are the key measures Brazil is implementing in the field of disaster prevention and management, particularly regarding floods, forest fires, and landslides, which are becoming increasingly frequent due to climate change?

Brazil’s disaster-prevention system is coordinated by the National Protection and Civil Defense System (SINPDEC), which integrates federal, state, and municipal actions, maintains a national registry of high-risk municipalities, and requires each of them to prepare local contingency plans. Prevention is based on mapping and classifying risk areas, limiting or prohibiting occupation of steep slopes and floodplains, and, where vulnerable settlements already exist, investing in slope stabilization, drainage, flood-control infrastructure, and basic sanitation. Early-warning and monitoring networks feed a national disaster information system, while local civil defense bodies are responsible for training, public awareness, and community preparedness. In the case of forest fires, Brazil has strengthened legislation, expanded the role of the National Environment Fund, and launched integrated operations, such as Operação Guardiões do Bioma, to prevent and combat illegal burning and deforestation. At the same time, the country is investing in resilient infrastructure and disaster-risk financing mechanisms.

In focus:

Brazil’s energy policy prioritizes renewable sources — especially hydropower, wind, solar, and biofuels — which keeps its electricity mix relatively clean by international standards. Hydropower remains the backbone of the system, while onshore wind and solar are the fastest-growing sources, with substantial expansion expected through 2030. New regulatory frameworks are stimulating investment in offshore wind, green hydrogen, and sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), with the strategic objective of positioning Brazil as a relevant low-carbon energy exporter. In the coming years, the country anticipates continued growth in wind and solar capacity, the consolidation of green-hydrogen hubs, higher ethanol, biodiesel, and SAF output, stronger transmission infrastructure, rapid expansion of distributed solar, and new green-industry projects aligned with the Ecological Transformation Plan.

Brazil’s renewable energy sector is among the most developed in the world. Which energy sources does Brazil invest in the most, and what results are expected in the coming years? Additionally, how would you describe current trends in Brazil’s energy sector?

Brazil invests most heavily in renewable energy, with hydropower forming the backbone of its electricity system and wind and solar emerging as the fastest-growing sources. Bioenergy—particularly ethanol, biodiesel, and biomass cogeneration—also plays a central role, linking the energy transition to Brazil’s strong agricultural sector. In the coming years, the country expects continued expansion of onshore wind and solar capacity, new regulatory support to unlock offshore wind and green hydrogen projects, rising production of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), and reinforced transmission infrastructure to better integrate variable renewables into the grid.

Current trends already point in this direction: rapid growth in distributed rooftop solar, increasing private-sector investment in large renewable energy parks, the early delineation of offshore wind zones, and the rise of green-industry projects aligned with Brazil’s broader ecological transition agenda. Taken together, these developments help consolidate Brazil’s position as one of the world’s cleanest large-scale energy matrices.

E-mobility is becoming a global priority. How is Brazil encouraging the development of electric vehicles, biofuels, and sustainable public transportation, and what are the expectations for the expansion of these technologies in 2026?

Photo: Foto: Pixabay/Lando Hamukwaya

Brazil is promoting electric vehicles (EVs), biofuels, and sustainable public transport through a combination of industrial policy, fiscal incentives, and broader energy-transition frameworks. The Rota 2030 program provides tax incentives for the production of low-emission vehicles, while the newer Mobility and Innovation Green Program (Mover) raises the bar on energy efficiency, recycled-content requirements, and investment in clean technologies across the automotive supply chain. At the same time, Brazil remains a global leader in biofuels, reinforcing RenovaBio, expanding ethanol and biodiesel blending mandates, and advancing regulations for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). Urban mobility policies increasingly favor electric and hybrid buses, with major cities investing in fleet renewal, charging infrastructure, and low-carbon transport plans.

By 2026, the country expects rapid growth in EV manufacturing, with a wider range of flex-hybrid and battery-electric models available to consumers, as well as the expansion of public charging corridors along key highways and in urban centers. Biofuel production — especially ethanol, biodiesel, and SAF — is projected to rise significantly, supporting both domestic decarbonization and potential export markets. Public transport systems are expected to incorporate a larger share of electric buses, backed by federal credit lines, green procurement rules, and municipal decarbonization strategies aligned with Brazil’s broader Ecological Transformation agenda.

Which strategic sustainable development guidelines are likely to define the upcoming year in Brazil, particularly in the areas of environmental protection, energy efficiency, and the circular economy?

Brazil’s strategic sustainable guidelines for the coming year converge on three main fronts: stronger environmental protection, higher energy efficiency, and a scaled-up circular economy. On the environmental side, key priorities include sustaining the recent decline in deforestation through the continued implementation and expansion of the PPCDAm  (Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Deforestation in the Legal Amazon)  and the PPCerrado (government program designed to promote sustainable development and protect Cerrado biomes), tightening enforcement against illegal mining, logging and fires, and advancing an Amazon bioeconomy that values standing forest and increases Indigenous participation in decision-making and benefit-sharing.

In the energy sector, Brazil is set to keep expanding renewable sources — especially wind, solar, and biofuels — while introducing new efficiency standards under the Ecological Transformation Plan, and providing incentives for electric mobility, green hydrogen, and other low-carbon technologies. In the circular-economy agenda, federal policy is expected to advance national guidelines for recycling and reverse logistics, promote low-carbon and resource-efficient industrial processes, and encourage the sustainable use and traceability of critical minerals, all aligned with Brazil’s Sustainable Taxonomy and green-industry programs. Taken together, these measures seek to align climate and biodiversity goals with economic modernization, technological innovation, and greater social inclusion.

⃰ The Brazilian Cerrado is a vast, biodiverse tropical savanna in central Brazil, covering more than 2 million km². Known as the “cradle of waters,” it feeds major river systems and serves as a vital groundwater recharge zone. It is also a global biodiversity hotspot, home to an immense variety of plants, animals, and fungi, many of them endemic.

Interview by Milena Maglovski

The interview was published in Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINNES

Prelog – A Small City With a Big Vision

Photo: Studio Vipro

Prelog is a town in Međimurje County, northern Croatia, that is highly committed to sustainable development and environmental protection. The city actively promotes green initiatives and projects that improve the quality of life of its residents and position the community as a regional role model. Ljubomir Kolarek, the Mayor of Prelog, spoke to us about current projects and plans for the period ahead.

Q: The City of Prelog received a new city park this year. Could you tell us more about the importance and implementation of this project?

A: This is a significant step forward for the City of Prelog, and something we have been planning for a long time. At the same time, this is only the first phase of the project, as we will soon begin the expansion and additional landscaping in the southern part of Prelog. The total value of the project amounts to €625,200.45, of which €350,000 was co-financed by the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund from the budget of the Republic of Croatia. Guided by the principle “think globally, act locally,” the City of Prelog implemented a project to restore green infrastructure. The project, titled Prelog GoGreen II – City Park South – Phase I, includes landscaping part of the southern city park, namely the restoration of a 25,427 m² habitat degraded by the construction of the Dubrava Hydropower Plant reservoir, and the partial return of this area to nature. Habitat restoration includes the planting of green infrastructure, namely afforestation with native plant species (a total of 467 plants), as well as the development of walking paths throughout the park, complete with communal infrastructure such as benches and waste bins. The goal was to create new green areas within the urban space, with the aim of increasing tree canopy coverage in the urban area of the City of Prelog and strengthening resilience to anthropogenic impacts. A neglected, degraded site overrun with invasive species has been transformed into a landscaped green space that is intended to become the new lungs of the City of Prelog. It is important to emphasize that urban regeneration through afforestation with native plant species will also indirectly support the reproduction of animal populations, particularly pollinators.

The importance of restoring biodiversity in this area is further underscored by its location on the edge of the Natura 2000 network, the Mura–Drava Regional Park, and the Mura–Drava–Danube Transboundary Biosphere Reserve, which is protected by UNESCO. Through this investment, we have restored at least a small part of the former natural environment—the well-known Drava forests—since nature restoration and enabling the revival of biodiversity represent a fast and cost-effective solution for carbon absorption and storage.

IN FOCUS:

Q: Prelog has joined the international City Nature Challenge project, which encourages citizens to document biodiversity in their city. How do you view this initiative?

A: It is an outstanding achievement that we were also involved in this project. In Prelog, we established cooperation with the public institution Međimurje Nature and, most importantly for us, schools from our area also participated. The project aims to engage residents in observing and recording the nature that surrounds them and to improve their understanding of urban biodiversity. Through the City Park South project, we have already been educating the youngest generations about biodiversity. As part of the Prelog GoGreen II – City Park South – Phase I project, workshops for school-aged children were organized under the guidance of Međimurje Nature – the Public Institution for Nature Protection. The workshops included 3rd and 4th-grade students from the Prelog and Draškovec primary schools. During these workshops, children were introduced to the importance of trees and the conservation of biological diversity. In the workshop titled The Value of a Tree, students, through play and exploration, gained insights into the many benefits a tree provides throughout its life cycle—from germination to death—including its most important role for human life: the production of oxygen. The value of a tree does not end with its death, as it becomes a source of food, medicine, and building material. In this way, students come to understand the importance of city parks, as well as forest ecosystems in general, for the survival of humankind. Through the workshop Our Wild Neighbors, students learned about many inhabitants of city parks, including various bird species, hedgehogs, squirrels, stag beetles, and more, thereby experiencing parks as small oases of biodiversity. The goal of these workshops was to encourage children, through new knowledge and experiences, to actively engage in nature conservation.

Q: The first RE-USE Center in Croatia was established in Prelog. After eight years of operation, how do you assess its importance?

A: Today, we live in a consumer society that generates increasing amounts of waste every day, much of which ends up in the environment or at landfill sites, which are among the largest sources of environmental pollution. Landfilling should be the final step in proper waste management; however, in Croatia, it is unfortunately very often the first and most prevalent method of waste treatment. A major problem is bulky waste, such as furniture, footwear, and clothing, as well as consumer goods (household items, books, toys, children’s, and sports equipment), which are discarded and end up in landfills. A large portion of these items is still usable but requires repair, refurbishment, or renewal, after which they can be reused. A facility that collects, receives, and restores such products is called a CPU (Center for Re-Use). Our CPU has been operating since 2017 and consists of a workshop-storage area and an exhibition section. It is important to note that we cooperate with companies and associations such as Naš Izvor, which specializes in processing waste leather, and Humana Nova, which focuses on processing waste textiles.

Q: Prelog is a leader in sustainable waste management in Croatia and beyond. Which practices would you highlight as an example for other cities?

A: I must once again express my gratitude to everyone involved in our waste management system, as every component plays a vital role. This includes our citizens, the local self-government units participating in our system, and the employees of the municipal utility company Pre-kom d.o.o. Prelog.

Prelog, along with Mursko Središće, Buzet, Osijek, Slavonski Brod, Krk, Ludbreg, Koprivnica, Grubišno Polje, Križevci, Đurđevac, Varaždin, and Virovitica, are the only 13 cities in Croatia that managed to exceed a 50 percent rate of separately collected waste last year. Prelog remains the most advanced among them, having achieved a 67.8 percent rate in the previous year.

Interview by Jasna Dragojević

The interview was published in Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINNES

Energy Outlook 2025: Renewable Growth Reshapes Global Market

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

The year we are saying goodbye to has been extremely dynamic – bringing new social and environmental risks, but also clear progress toward a cleaner energy system, as summarized by Ember in its review of the global energy transition in 2025.

This year, two sources of renewable energy – solar and wind – achieved particular success. In fact, energy from these sources is now expanding fast enough to cover all new electricity demand. In the first three quarters, solar and wind provided 17.6 percent of global electricity generation, increasing the share of low-carbon sources to 43 percent.

During a sustained period in 2025, together with these two sources, hydro and smaller sources, such as geothermal energy, generated more electricity than coal.

Solar energy has notably accelerated in markets and regions that had previously lagged behind, including countries across Africa. In South America, wind and solar in Brazil produced more than one-third of total electricity for the first time in a single month, in August.

More:

Electrotechnologies – solar, wind, batteries, electric vehicles, heat pumps, and others – have become the main driver of global energy growth.

Falling battery storage costs have contributed to making the goal of 24/7 solar power achievable. In countries with already high solar capacity, combining solar with battery systems has enabled nearly continuous electricity supply at a cost of around USD 104 per MWh, making this option cheaper than new coal-fired or nuclear power plants.

A striking example also comes from India, where heavy industry – such as steel, cement, and chemical production – can now supply most of its electricity demand from renewable sources.

Energy portal

How CBAM Will Transform the Serbian Economy

Photo: Unsplash/ant-rozetsky

As of 1 January 2026, Serbia enters a new economic reality: the full implementation of CBAM (the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) will not only pose a regulatory challenge but also test the domestic economy’s readiness for an accelerated energy transition. Although the European Union designed this mechanism to ensure fair competition and prevent carbon leakage, the consequences for countries whose economies lag in decarbonization could be significant. Serbia is no exception.

Foto: Courtesy of Slobodan Minić

How will the new levies affect exporters of steel, aluminum, fertilizers, and cement? Is EPS about to face the most challenging period in its history? How realistic is it to retain part of the revenue within Serbia through a domestic carbon tax—and does the state have a clear vision for financing an energy transition worth tens of billions of euros?

We discussed these questions with Slobodan Minić, Special Advisor to the Fiscal Council of Serbia, who warns that the impact of CBAM will not be the same across sectors, and that Serbia no longer has the luxury of postponing essential reform decisions.

What impact will the introduction of CBAM on 1 January 2026 have on the Serbian economy, particularly on directly affected companies in the iron and steel, cement, aluminum, and fertilizer sectors?

— When the European Commission first announced the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) in late 2019, there was a justified concern that the Serbian economy could be disproportionately affected. The reasons were clear: the European Union is our most important market, accounting for around two-thirds of Serbia’s exports. At the same time, our domestic economy objectively lags behind European competitors in terms of decarbonization. To illustrate, Serbia emits 95 percent more greenhouse gases per unit of GDP than the Central and Eastern European average.

However, a detailed analysis shows that the effect of CBAM—at least in its current form—will not be catastrophic for the economy as a whole, although the impact on the directly affected sectors could be significant. According to the Fiscal Council’s estimates, CBAM will increase the cost of Serbian exports by around EUR 45 million in 2026, and this burden could grow to EUR 150–200 million annually by 2030. The reasons for this increase are twofold: on one hand, the EU is gradually phasing out free allowances for its own producers in these sectors (which proportionally increases CBAM obligations for importers), and on the other hand, the market price of carbon is expected to continue rising in the coming years.

In focus:

Looking at individual sectors, the impact of CBAM is uneven and depends on their specific characteristics. By far the largest share of the estimated cost—some 75–80 percent—will fall on the iron and steel sector, due to the high volume of exports to the EU and the sector’s relatively high emission intensity. By contrast, the cement sector, although it also has higher emissions compared to European companies, is not expected to face significant business consequences. Cement is a low-value, high-weight product with high transport costs, meaning most of its production is sold on local and regional markets rather than exported to the EU.

How will this specifically affect the competitiveness of Serbian companies in these sectors, and is there a risk that some of our producers may lose access to the EU market?

— CBAM undoubtedly introduces significant additional costs that weaken the competitiveness of Serbian companies in the affected sectors, but this is a risk that appears manageable. Although emissions from our producers in these industries are higher than those of their European counterparts, the difference is not dramatic, averaging 15-20 percent. Consequently, CBAM will inevitably lead to higher prices for our products on the European market in the medium term: we estimate that aluminum prices may increase by 3–4 percent. In comparison, fertilizers and steel prices may increase by around 10 percent. In contrast, cement prices could rise by as much as 40 percent.

However, it is crucial to consider the broader context: production costs will not rise only for us. European producers of CBAM goods will also face higher costs starting in 2026, as the EU gradually phases out free emission allowances—a mechanism that, until now, has helped shield them from competitive disadvantages. In other words, market conditions are changing for all players. When this is taken into account, the net loss of competitiveness for Serbian companies should remain moderate—between one and five percentage points, depending on the sector.

I believe this is not an insurmountable gap, provided domestic companies intensify investments in new technologies and in emission reductions in the coming years.

The power sector has been identified as the most vulnerable to CBAM. How much revenue could EPS realistically lose due to reduced exports, and is there any scenario in which electricity exports to the EU remain profitable?

— That’s correct—the power sector, and EPS as the dominant producer, is truly the elephant in the room when discussing the effects of CBAM. I mentioned earlier that emission differences in industry are moderate, but in electricity production, they are dramatic. Because Serbia relies predominantly on lignite, emissions in this sector are three to four times higher than the EU average. Simply put, Serbia has not followed the EU trend of rapid power-sector decarbonization over the past two decades, and the result of that inertia is an exceptionally poor starting position ahead of CBAM’s full implementation.

Photo: Usplash/yasin-hemmati

An additional problem is that electricity has no discounts and no transition period, because the EU abolished free allowances in this sector long ago. As a result, the full carbon price will be charged starting in 2026.

In practice, this means that every megawatt-hour exported to the EU would incur an additional levy of around EUR 60. With such a burden, electricity exports become economically unviable, and EPS becomes entirely uncompetitive in the European market. Fiscal Council analyses show that, due to the loss of export revenue, EPS could lose EUR 200–300 million annually by 2030. This is a huge amount of money that has so far contributed significantly to the company’s performance—and it may now be missing precisely at a time when massive investments in renewable energy are urgently needed.

Although some voices within the EU are calling for postponing the application of CBAM to electricity to resolve certain technical issues and uncertainties, such a delay would be only a temporary reprieve. The long-term solution for Serbia likely lies in active negotiations with the EU, aimed at establishing a clearly defined roadmap for the domestic power sector.

In the ideal scenario, this would include meeting the conditions for a temporary exemption for electricity exports until 2030, followed by a gradual integration into the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) under reasonable terms. Anything else carries the risk of Serbia becoming an isolated energy island in Europe—a situation that, according to our assessments, benefits no one.

Interview by Milena Maglovski

The interview was published in Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINNES

Germany: Europe’s Largest Green Hydrogen Plant Being Commissioned

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

The German energy company RWE (Rheinisch-Westfälisches Elektrizitätswerk) has recently begun the commissioning process of Europe’s largest green hydrogen production facility.

The plant is located in Lingen, in western Germany, and, as reported by international media, this is the first phase of the GET H₂ Nukleus project. The first phase includes a 100 MW electrolyzer, while the total planned capacity of the facility is 300 MW.

The first phase is expected to begin commercial operation in 2026, while the completion of the entire facility is planned for 2027. Once finished, the plant will be almost twice the size of the currently largest hydrogen facility in Europe.

More:

The green hydrogen, under a long-term contract, will be supplied to TotalEnergies in eastern Germany, and a new 600-kilometer hydrogen network is being constructed for this purpose. From 2030 onwards, approximately 30,000 tons are planned to be delivered annually.

The refinery in Leuna, operated by TotalEnergies, currently produces hydrogen mainly from fossil fuels. The goal of the project is to replace this fossil-based hydrogen with green hydrogen produced by water electrolysis using renewable energy, thereby significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.

Energy portal

Corporate Social Responsibility: How MaxBet Builds Social Capital

Photo: MaxBet
Photo: MaxBet

At a time when ESG standards are increasingly evaluated by their real impact on the community rather than declarative promises, MaxBet approaches social responsibility as a long-term strategy rather than a season of campaigns. The company’s integration into Flutter International has further professionalized and expanded this framework, resulting in the systematic development of social capital through investments in healthcare, local community stability, environmental projects, and employee development.

“When I speak about social capital, I am referring to the decision to be present where support is truly needed—in hospitals, schools, forests, and on sports fields,” says Savo Bakmaz, General Manager of MaxBet. “Everything we do, from blood donation to developing our people, is part of the same commitment—to ensure that our business leaves a legacy greater than profit.”

This approach is embodied in the “Life Is Blood” initiative, which has grown from a local idea into one of the largest voluntary blood donation programs in the region. To date, 84 drives have been organized, 11,106 units of blood have been collected, and support has been provided in saving more than 33,000 lives. In 2025, the campaign expanded into new communities.

MaxBet’s dedication to health continues through support for organizations working with the most vulnerable groups, as well as through internal initiatives such as the annual MaxMovember campaign, focused on prevention, health awareness, and improving the quality of life for men. One of the central activities of this year’s campaign was the workshop “Men in Focus,” designed to open a conversation about topics often insufficiently discussed yet essential to everyday physical and mental well-being.

IN FOCUS:

In October 2025, MaxBet also supported the 10th BELhospice humanitarian tennis tournament, “Game for Dignity,” contributing to the only licensed program of free palliative care and psychological support in Serbia. In the same spirit, participation in UNICEF’s Fair Play 3×3 basketball tournament—where 1,440,000 dinars were raised for improving mental health services for children and youth—demonstrates that sport can be one of the fastest channels through which social impact becomes visible. Responsible gaming is central to MaxBet’s business philosophy and is part of the global Play Well program, developed by Flutter International. It is a model that combines behavioral monitoring, early detection of risky changes, and self-control tools such as spending limits, timeouts, and self-exclusion – all aimed at ensuring a game that remains within the bounds of fun without compromising personal or family stability. In the gaming industry, this is one of the most important tests of a business model’s maturity. 

MaxBet also strives to create social impact through projects that directly improve living conditions in the communities where it operates. In Zrenjanin, the company financed the renovation of the outdoor area of the Day Care Center for people with developmental disabilities, part of the “Most” Center, providing users with a more accessible and functional space for everyday activities. In Nikšić and Budva, specialized protective equipment was donated to local rescue and emergency services, ensuring that firefighters and first responders have better tools to handle fires and other urgent situations.

The environmental segment of the program is equally strong. To mark Earth Day, MaxBet employees took part in one of the company’s largest volunteer reforestation actions, during which, through cooperation with the public forestry enterprise Srbijašume, 6,000 seedlings were planted: black pine near Kraljevo, spruce on Mali Jastrebac, and pedunculate oak in the vicinity of Belgrade. Athletes from FC Partizan and FC Vojvodina joined the initiative, symbolically linking care for nature with care for the community.

Prepared by Milena Maglovski

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

CBAM and the Energy Community: Readiness Level of the Region’s Countries

Photo generated by AI

The European Union has decided to fully implement its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) as of 1 January 2026. The core principle of CBAM is that every ton of carbon dioxide embodied in goods entering the EU market will be priced. During the transitional period, which runs until the end of 2025, importers were required only to report emissions, without any obligation to pay. However, the collection of charges via CBAM certificates will begin soon.

For the countries that are Contracting Parties to the Energy Community—including Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Moldova, Ukraine, Georgia, and Kosovo* — this represents a major step, as CBAM covers not only carbon-intensive products such as steel and certain other goods, but also electricity. Since the aim of the Energy Community is to extend EU energy and climate rules to these non-EU countries, electricity generated in coal or gas-fired power plants and subsequently exported to the EU will no longer be able to enter the European market from 2026 without paying for the carbon footprint embedded in each megawatt-hour. As a result, issues of market integration and decarbonization have gradually become central topics for the entire region. All of this, and much more, is explained in the CBAM Readiness Tracker 2025 of the Energy Community Secretariat, which serves as the basis for the data presented here.

Photo: Pixabay

As noted in the report, two changes are being introduced initially. First, quarterly emissions reporting will be replaced by annual reporting. Second, importers into the EU will be required to purchase CBAM certificates to cover the emissions associated with the goods they import—including electricity, which is the focus of the analysis below. Certificates will be available for purchase from February 2027, but they will apply to emissions generated already during 2026, meaning there is no real grace period.

Energy Community countries find themselves in a specific situation. Wind and solar capacities are growing faster than before, and CO₂ emissions per kilowatt-hour are gradually declining. On the other hand, coal-fired power plants still account for a significant share of electricity generation, while the accompanying legislation and emissions pricing systems remain far behind EU standards. CBAM will therefore, at least in its initial phase, result in additional costs for electricity exports from the region to the European Union.

The CBAM Regulation is based on the assumption that there is no practical way to simultaneously maintain full market coupling with the EU while selectively applying CBAM to electricity originating from a particular country. For this reason, the Regulation provides that electricity imports from a third country may be exempted from the obligation to purchase CBAM certificates only if that country transposes the EU electricity market rules (Electricity Integration Package – EIP), becomes technically interconnected with the EU internal electricity market, adopts a long-term climate strategy and a climate law with the objective of achieving climate neutrality by 2050, introduces an emissions trading system (ETS) for the electricity sector with a CO₂ price broadly aligned with the EU ETS by 2030, and ensures that electricity from other countries that do not meet these conditions cannot enter the EU via its system.

Only once the European Commission, following a detailed assessment, confirms that all of these criteria have been fulfilled, can electricity from that country be exempted from the obligation to purchase CBAM certificates. In practical terms, this means that CBAM imposes not only a requirement of market integration but also a requirement to adopt robust climate policies. To date, only Montenegro has established its own emissions trading system (ETS). Ukraine plans to launch a pilot ETS phase in 2026. Other countries are generally considering introducing a carbon tax around 2027, with a later transition to an ETS, or have no concrete plans in place at all.

At the same time, long-term climate strategies targeting climate neutrality by 2050 exist in only a few countries, while climate laws embedding this objective into national legislation have been adopted only in Ukraine and Moldova.

The CBAM Regulation also requires countries seeking an exemption to prepare a detailed roadmap. Given the complexity of an ETS and the time required to establish it, the report raises a very direct question: whether the Energy Community Contracting Parties will realistically be able to meet this requirement within the prescribed timelines.

IN FOCUS:

Regional Electricity – Imports and Exports

Significantly larger volumes of electricity flow through the networks of Energy Community countries (particularly the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova) toward the EU than these countries actually export. Although the available data do not allow the precise origin of every megawatt to be identified, the system configuration clearly shows that the Western Balkans Six, surrounded by EU Member States, form a natural transit corridor for cross-border flows between different EU markets, as explained in more detail in the report. Ukraine and Moldova have been synchronized with the Continental European grid since 2022, while Georgia remains physically disconnected.

Data for 2024 show that almost none of the countries (except Bosnia and Herzegovina and, to some extent, Montenegro) recorded significant net electricity exports on an annual basis. However, scheduled commercial flows toward the EU are far larger than this modest level of exports, indicating that the vast majority of electricity passing through their systems is not domestic, but rather transit electricity from neighboring EU Member States.

This is directly linked to the previously explained exemption framework, as the report emphasizes that, in order to apply CBAM rules correctly, the EU must clearly distinguish between: (1) actual commercial imports of electricity from a country that does not benefit from a CBAM exemption, and (2) electricity that merely transits through that country’s network between two EU markets. This distinction is essential, among other reasons, to avoid imposing CBAM obligations on electricity that the country in question does not produce at all. For this reason, the exemption conditions themselves place strong emphasis on rules to prevent circumvention and on the clear separation of transit flows from genuine exports.

Alongside regulatory reforms, the report also analyzes electricity flow patterns. Due to previously unfavorable hydrological conditions and increased domestic demand, most Energy Community countries became net electricity importers on an annual basis in 2024. Bosnia and Herzegovina was the exception, remaining the largest exporter, while Montenegro recorded only a small net export. Serbia registered net imports of approximately 520 GWh, according to the data (Table 3, page 13 of the report).

At the same time, the role of these countries as transit corridors between different EU markets is clearly evident. In 2024, as much as 9,181 GWh of scheduled commercial electricity flows toward EU Member States passed through Serbia—the highest volume in the region by a wide margin. This is followed by North Macedonia with 3,354 GWh, Montenegro with 3,042 GWh, Bosnia and Herzegovina with 2,158 GWh, Albania with 1,307 GWh, and Moldova with 188 GWh (Table 2, page 12 of the report). In principle, commercial flows do not indicate how much electricity a country has produced, but rather how much trading activity (contracts) has been registered across its borders.

When all figures are compared, it becomes clear that a substantial share of the electricity passing through these systems is not of domestic origin. Serbia is a clear example of this pattern, as shown by the data above, and similar dynamics can be observed in North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Albania.

Renewable Energy Development and Auctions as a Driving Force

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Chris LeBoutillier)

By adopting National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs), most Energy Community countries have formally accepted the 2030 renewable energy share targets set by the Ministerial Council. However, delays in adopting these plans have somewhat reduced investment certainty. Most countries have set targets at or slightly above the binding levels. At the same time, Serbia is the only country whose NECP sets a renewable energy share for 2030 at around seven percentage points below the mandatory level, as explained in the document itself.

In the electricity sector, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia have recorded increases in the share of renewables, indicating the gradual integration of new wind and solar capacities into the energy mix. The most significant gap, however, remains in the transport sector. In heating and cooling, the picture is mixed: North Macedonia and Ukraine are well aligned with the targets set by the Renewable Energy Directive, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia are close to these levels, while Montenegro represents a specific case—having exceeded a 60 percent renewable energy share in heating and cooling as early as 2020, it is, under EU rules, not required to set a new target for 2030.

The report emphasizes that the transition toward renewable energy increasingly relies on auctions as a modern support mechanism. Between September 2024 and 2025, an intense wave of auctions was recorded across the region. Amid the energy crisis, Moldova successfully conducted its first renewable energy auction, awarding 165 MW of solar and wind capacity, and is already preparing a second auction that will combine renewable projects with battery energy storage systems (BESS). Following the adoption of its first standalone Renewable Energy Law in 2024, Montenegro launched its first solar auction in the summer of 2025, targeting up to 250 MW of new capacity.

During the same period, Serbia completed its second renewable energy auction, awarding 424.8 MW of solar and wind projects, with expected installations totaling around 650 MW. New qualification rules—based on the share of capacity allocated to the guaranteed supplier or directly to end customers—enabled more projects to enter the quota, increased the total planned capacity, and further stimulated the development of market-based power purchase agreements (PPAs). In contrast to these examples, two renewable energy auctions held in Ukraine were unsuccessful. At the same time, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains the only Contracting Party that has not yet launched renewable energy auctions, despite having an established legal framework.

Overall, the data confirm that auctions have become a key instrument for accelerating the energy transition within the Energy Community—while also highlighting that the pace of implementation varies significantly across countries.

*This designation is without prejudice to status and is in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 and the Opinion of the International Court of Justice on Kosovo’s declaration of independence.

Prepared by Milica Vučković

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Does Exercise Make Sense When the Air Is Bad?

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Arek Adeoye)

That evening, there wasn’t a single free parking space in front of my building, so I parked about a hundred meters away, near the playground. The fog was thick, and the heavy mix of smog and moisture was already pressing on my lungs as I walked briskly from the car toward the entrance. At that moment, very little could have made me spend even one more second outside — but one scene stopped me anyway.

The football field next to the playground was full of children, probably teenagers. They were running, shouting, chasing the ball, completely indifferent to the poor visibility and the air that smelled like anything but health.

Are they aware that physical activity is not recommended — even strictly discouraged — when the air is this polluted? Do their parents know? Should I go over and say something?

I didn’t. I shook off those thoughts and continued toward the entrance, already feeling my breathing grow heavier. In our town, there is no air quality monitor, no warnings, no alarms to alert us to the danger that descends every evening in the form of a foul-smelling cloud. And children are — children. They want to run, to burn off energy, to be outside with their friends.

I had the feeling they wouldn’t take me seriously. That I would seem like some paranoid, grumpy woman imagining that air could harm one’s health. After all, if the situation were really that serious, wouldn’t it be on the news? Besides, they’re running — and nothing’s happening to them. The fact that my head was already spinning was probably just my age.

But as I encountered them outside several more times, each time with the air smelling of burning tires, I decided to look into how physical activity in polluted air actually affects our health.

We exercise to be healthy — and the air works against us

Photo illustration: Unsplash (Mikhail Pushkarev)

One large international study, which followed more than 1.5 million adults over a period of more than ten years, shows that long-term exposure to toxic air can seriously reduce the protective power of regular exercise. In other words — yes, exercise still helps us live longer, but its benefits are drastically weakened in environments with high air pollution.

The study was conducted by an international team of researchers, including experts from University College London (UCL), and was published in the prestigious journal BMC Medicine. Data were collected in multiple countries — from the United Kingdom and Denmark to China, Taiwan, and the United States — giving the findings both weight and a global context.

The researchers focused in particular on fine particulate matter PM2.5 — microscopic pollutants smaller than 2.5 micrometers. They are so tiny that they not only penetrate deep into the lungs, but can also enter the bloodstream. These particles are precisely what make the air feel “heavy,” hazy, and dangerous — and they are exactly what we inhale most while running, cycling, or playing football outdoors.

The results are quite clear and somewhat unsettling. People who exercised regularly — at least two and a half hours per week of moderate or vigorous activity — had about a 30% lower risk of death compared to those who were physically inactive. But only when the air was relatively clean.

When average annual PM2.5 levels reached 25 micrograms per cubic meter or more, the benefits of exercise declined sharply. Among very active people living under such conditions, the protective effect of exercise dropped to just 12–15%. Nearly half of the world’s population today lives in areas where air pollution is at or above this level.

The situation becomes even worse when pollution exceeds 35 micrograms per cubic meter — which is the case for about 36% of people worldwide. Under these conditions, especially when it comes to cancer-related mortality, the protective effects of physical activity become very weak.

The researchers nevertheless emphasize that exercise should not be completely abandoned, even in polluted environments.

“Exercise remains beneficial even in polluted settings, but cleaner air can unlock much greater health gains,” said one of the study’s lead authors, Professor Po-Wen Ku of National Chung Hsing University in Taiwan.

His colleague from UCL, Professor Andrew Steptoe, adds that toxic air can block some of the benefits of exercise — but it cannot erase them entirely. In other words, the body keeps fighting, but it has a much harder time.

The authors recommend a pragmatic approach: checking air quality before training, choosing less trafficked and greener routes, and reducing exercise intensity on days when pollution is high. No one is calling for abandoning movement — but science clearly warns us that the context in which we move matters greatly.

Perhaps that was another reason why I didn’t say anything to the children that evening. I didn’t know what was worse — for them to stay at home, trapped within four walls, or to move, run, and breathe, even if the air clearly wasn’t doing them any good. That dilemma hasn’t disappeared even today, but now we at least have an answer that helps us view it more soberly.

Movement is important. Undeniably so. But the air we breathe is not a minor detail. Between the two, the solution is not in giving up, but in making smart choices — about when we go outside, how hard we push ourselves, and where we choose to spend our time.

Milena Maglovski

Celebrating Five Years of Siemens Energy Serbia: Shaping the Energy Future of the Region

Photo: Siemens Energy Serbia

Five years after Siemens Energy became an independent company, this global energy leader has grown into one of the key drivers of energy transition. In Serbia, Siemens Energy has maintained its reputation as a trusted partner to the power sector and process industry, while also becoming a center of technical expertise for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. We spoke with Petar Šainović, Managing Director of Siemens Energy Serbia, about the achievements so far, the role of the local team, and what the future holds.

Siemens Energy is marking five years of independent operations worldwide. How would you describe that journey?

Photo: Courtesy of Petar Šajinović

— For the energy sector, five years is a very short period. Yet for us, it has been a time of major challenges and profound transformation. When Siemens Energy emerged as a standalone company in 2020, many wondered if this was merely an administrative change. It soon became clear, however, that it was a strategic move – one that enabled faster decision-making, a sharper focus on the energy business, and, most importantly, accelerated the development of new technologies. The challenges, particularly in the wind business, made us stronger, while the evolution of the energy market fueled growth beyond expectations – both in financial performance and in workforce size.

What we are most proud of is the qualitative shift. This is primarily reflected in our corporate culture – a company that truly lives by the famous saying – Culture eats strategy for breakfast. It is built on open and direct communication, accountability, integrity, trust, and a shared commitment to common goals. I firmly believe that such culture is the key reason why the company’s value has quadrupled since 2020.

Today, Siemens Energy Serbia plays a significant role in global operations. How has the organization evolved in that regard?

— Just a little over five years ago, at the time of the spin-off from Siemens, we employed slightly more than 50 people. Our focus was primarily on the Serbian market, with occasional projects in the Western Balkans. However, operating in a domestic market – which, in terms of European or global energy, is relatively small – forced us to be flexible and innovative. Rarely did we have the chance to work on similar projects twice; almost every time, we were doing things for the first time. A legendary quote from one of our colleagues sums it up: We’re the best at what we do for the first time. That was the only way to survive, given that our business revolves around complex projects. Only a tiny portion relates to product sales. Such an approach and the successes we achieved earned us recognition at the European and even global level. Today, our engineers work on projects across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Our cybersecurity experts safeguard the company’s global cyber resilience, while our corporate security team ensures the protection of people, assets, and processes worldwide.

Photo: Siemens Energy Serbia

Over these five years, we have come a long way. Financially, we have grown more than threefold. Our workforce has increased nearly five times, and we now employ around 230 people – most of them engineers.

Quality matters more than quantity. Today, 80 percent of our employees are engaged in international projects. Not only do our people participate in global projects, but as an organization, we are responsible for the entire process- from preparing technical solutions and proposals to project management, site organization, installation supervision, and commissioning. Our concept is not based on so-called body leasing or low engineering-hour rates, but on knowledge, accountability, and dedication. Moreover, our engineers do not spend extended periods on foreign sites, as most of the work is done from Belgrade. This allows them to stay close to their families while contributing to major international projects and collaborating with people from all over the world.

In focus:

Five years ago, we could not have imagined such a scenario in Serbia. On top of that, seven of our colleagues – still based in Belgrade- now hold international leadership positions. This is certainly driven by our global priority of inclusion and diversity, but perhaps even more by the commitment of the local team, which could not go unnoticed.

Can you share the secret of your success with our readers?

— There is no secret. It’s simple. As I mentioned earlier, the key lies in business culture. We build the desired culture through communication. Communication must be open, direct, and, of course, timely.

Photo: Siemens Energy Serbia

If something isn’t working as it should, it’s essential to communicate that clearly and promptly: Your results are not meeting expectations. Let’s find a solution together. People accept that. They recognize honesty and usually make an effort to change.

Perhaps even more important is clearly communicating the common goal. Identifying with that goal is a powerful tool. If you don’t believe in the goals of the company you work for, my advice is to change your environment.

When the majority embraces a shared goal, there’s a strong chance employees will act as if it were their own company. Then everything becomes easier- and not just easier, but enjoyable. If we spend most of our waking hours at work, let’s make sure those hours are filled with purpose and a positive atmosphere.

How do you see the next five years for Siemens Energy Serbia?

— In today’s energy sector, unpredictability is the only constant. Just a few years ago, the current surge in global market growth was unimaginable.

What we can be sure of: if we manage to preserve our culture amid rapid workforce expansion, we’ve truly succeeded.

Back in 2021, I jokingly told employees that our goal was to reach 1,000 people by 2030. The comments were that it was unrealistic. My response was: Who needs realistic goals? What happens if we achieve them? Do we just go home? At that time, no one could have imagined that by 2025, we would have 230 employees and be working on the projects we are doing today.

I believe the next five years will be marked by even more dynamic growth in energy investments, a significant increase in headcount, and further digitalization of operations. I am confident this team is capable of outstanding achievements and ready to meet market demands. An incredibly exciting period lies ahead—something new and interesting every day. That’s over 1,200 fascinating workdays in five years.

Interview by Milena Maglovski

The interview was published in Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINNES

Poland Successfully Concludes Its First Offshore Wind Auction

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

Poland has successfully completed its first competitive auction for offshore wind energy, which awarded support for three major projects in the Baltic Sea, with a total capacity of 3.4 GW.

Besides marking a significant milestone in the country’s energy transition, this event also has broader significance for the European offshore wind sector, as it confirms market growth and investor confidence in the further development of this energy segment, reports WindEurope.

The auction was conducted through a two-sided Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, providing investors with long-term price stability for a period of 25 years. Winning bids ranged from approximately 113 euros to 117 euros per MWh.

The projects are expected to deliver their first electricity to the grid by the end of 2032. It is estimated that the total electricity generation from these projects during the support period will reach around 330 TWh.

More:

In the supply chain, domestic companies are expected to account for over 40 percent, which will strengthen industrial capacity and expertise in coastal regions, while Poland moves closer to its goal of becoming a leading offshore wind hub in the Baltic Sea.

According to Poland’s offshore wind roadmap, new auctions are planned for 2027, 2029, and 2031, offering additional gigawatts of capacity.

For two major offshore wind projects that are already under construction in the Baltic Sea, with the first turbines installed, support was granted outside the auction system, involving global companies such as Ørsted and Northland Power.

If the current pace of development continues, Poland could reach 18 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2040, potentially exceeding 30 GW by 2050.

Energy portal

Double holder of the OPEC Fund’s Master of innovation title

Photo: iwa-universal.com

Innovation is the driving force of modern society — through new ideas and approaches, it generates solutions that improve the quality of life and stimulate economic growth. Innovators do not accept limitations; instead, they seek ways to make things faster, simpler, and more effective. One such innovator is Zoran Dujaković, from the Republic of Srpska, who has received the Master of Innovation title for the second time, awarded by the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) — an international development organization established to support innovation and sustainable development projects.

He has an impressive portfolio of awards and recognitions for his inventions, particularly in the fields of environmental protection, the automotive industry, and medicine, where he developed an immobilizer that completely replaces plaster casts. In addition to his work as an innovator, Dujaković is also a diving instructor with international certifications and a speleologist. It is therefore no surprise that the innovation for which he received this latest recognition is designed for cave diving applications.

Photo: Courtesy of Zoran Dujaković

Having practiced this discipline himself, he realized how dangerous it can be when, during a dive, it is impossible to surface safely. This insight led him to create a device that enables safe and environmentally friendly refilling of diving tanks underwater.

The invention, called the Underwater Air and Liquid Media Charger, has already received awards in Europe. A special technique prevents water from entering the diving tank, allowing it to be refilled completely — as if done on the surface — and thus enabling the diver to continue diving safely. Thanks to this underwater charger, it is also possible, for example, to extract oil from a sunken tanker without spilling it into the sea.

When it comes to innovation in our region, Dujaković notes that there is little investor interest in supporting such projects, which is why he plans to personally finance the production of several hundred units and offer them to diving centers worldwide.

In focus:

He received the Master of Innovation award for the first time two years ago, during a cycle of exhibitions held in the United States, where the competition took place in six cities, and in five of them, he won a gold medal.

— Besides me, there were other participants from Bosnia and Herzegovina as well. If you win three or more gold medals, you earn the right to receive this title. I believe there were about 60 people worldwide who received that recognition that year. I didn’t exhibit anything last year, but this year I participated online in Japan and Australia. They prepare all the documentation for every exhibition that belongs to the same cycle, and the juries convene on the same day. There’s no lobbying like we often see here — explains Dujaković, emphasizing the seriousness and credibility of the institutes involved in these events.

In the near future, he plans to develop and test his patent for a conical turbine in Nepal, a country he visited a year ago.

— There, everything functions as long as there’s daylight and sunshine, but by eight in the evening, people already go to bed. They have severe shortages of energy sources. They dry yak dung, mix it with kerosene, and it provides decent heating. Since they don’t have many by-products, they heat for only a short time during the day. They also face infrastructure problems in the energy sector. Somehow, they found out about me and offered to collaborate — to try to create a prototype. It would be for an institute within a university — Dujaković says.

The core idea of this invention is a single pipe that, with patented internal components and a generator, can produce a specific amount of energy depending on its diameter, length, slope, and water flow.

— Regardless of calculations, these elements must be tested and proven in practice — he adds, noting that his trip to Nepal has been postponed for now due to the recent political unrest in the country.

Protected Works

Dujaković, who has been involved in innovation for many years, has so far submitted several works to the Institute for Intellectual Property of Bosnia and Herzegovina and to the International Patent Office. His first patented invention, registered back in 2007, was a mobile scaffold designed for work at heights. One of his earlier inventions, for which he also received medals, is a detection system for continuous and field detection of people, animals, and objects — without posing any risk to the handler or the dog.

Prepared by Jasna Dragojević

The story was published in Energy portal Magazine GREEN ARCHITECTURE

123...418Page 1 of 418

Newsletter

Please enter a valid email address

Calendar of events

2025 December

MO
TU
WE
TH
FR
SA
SU
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
Events for 29 December
Events for 31 December
No Events
Events for 1 January
Events for 2 January
No Events
Events for 3 January
No Events
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
Events for 4 January
Events for 5 January
No Events
Events for 6 January
No Events
Events for 7 January
Events for 8 January
No Events
Events for 9 January
No Events
Events for 10 January
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
Events for 11 January
No Events
Events for 12 January
No Events
Events for 13 January
Events for 14 January
No Events
Events for 15 January
No Events
Events for 16 January
Events for 17 January
No Events
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
Events for 18 January
No Events
Events for 19 January
Events for 20 January
No Events
Events for 21 January
No Events
Events for 22 January
Events for 23 January
No Events
Events for 24 January
No Events
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
Events for 25 January
Events for 26 January
Events for 27 January
No Events
Events for 28 January
Events for 29 January
No Events
Events for 30 January
No Events
Events for 31 January

WRITE US

Office: Bulevar oslobođenja 103/3, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
Monday–Friday: 09–17h
Phone/Fax: +381 (11) 396 23 59 info@energetskiportal.rs marketing@energetskiportal.rs

©2024 www.energetskiportal.com