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The Development Agency of Serbia as a Driver of Sustainable Change

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Alexa)

Global trends increasingly position sustainability as a key component of success, presenting significant challenges for entrepreneurs. The Development Agency of Serbia (RAS) recognizes the importance of sustainability in business operations and actively contributes to implementing ESG principles through various initiatives and programs. The Agency strives to help businesses improve their operations, become more competitive, and attract foreign investments through education, consulting, and financial support.

RAS fully supports ESG principles, viewing them not only as essential for environmental protection but also for responsible behavior toward employees and the broader social environment. Radoš Gazdić, Acting Director of RAS, emphasizes that while the formal application of ESG principles in Serbia is not yet mandatory, it is gradually becoming a standard for good governance, particularly among large companies operating within the European Union. According to him, Serbia already has a solid foundation for further alignment with ESG principles, with nearly 27 percent of its electricity coming from renewable sources. However, he underscores the need for progress in areas such as waste management and the development of green energy.

“We are actively working on educating small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), helping them adapt to ESG standards. Since 2022, in cooperation with UNDP, numerous workshops and activities have been organized, involving over 30  participants in the RAS Supplier Development Program aimed at integrating SMEs into the supply chains of multinational companies. Additionally, at the beginning of 2024, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), training sessions were conducted focusing on Germany’s Supply Chain Due Diligence Act and EU directives, emphasizing establishing internal grievance mechanisms within companies. These activities help businesses align with modern sustainable business requirements,” explains Gazdić.

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The Agency is planning new workshops for the SME sector in collaboration with UNDP. These free workshops will enable entrepreneurs to apply ESG principles practically in their businesses. Entrepreneurs will gain concrete tools and methodologies for implementing sustainable business practices.

Foreign investors planning large-scale projects often require adherence to specific environmental and social standards, such as using green energy, reducing carbon dioxide emissions, responsible waste management, and recycling. Gazdić notes that Serbia is ready to meet these demands but reminds us that realizing major projects takes several years for investors and the state. Therefore, it is crucial to assess Serbia’s ability to respond to investors’ needs within the appropriate timeframe for project implementation.

“One of the key goals of the Development Agency of Serbia is to increase the international visibility of our country as an attractive destination for sustainable investments. We aim to enhance the country’s competitiveness in the global market by promoting the advantages Serbia offers regarding ESG standards. In this context, RAS is connecting with investments that enable the green transformation of the economy and increase Serbia’s competitiveness,” he explains.

Prepared by Milica Radičević

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Turkish RES Auctions: Large Projects Face Challenges, but the Solution Lies in Reforms

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

In 2016, Turkey launched auctions for Renewable Energy Resource Zones (YEKA) to develop large-scale solar and wind projects while simplifying land allocation and promoting domestic production of renewable energy equipment. Although the YEKA initiative represents a significant step toward achieving the country’s renewable energy goals, its implementation has faced several challenges, according to EMBER.

The first YEKA auction was held in 2017, awarding 1 GW of solar capacity. By the end of 2024, a total of 5.8 GW had been allocated—3 GW of solar and 2.8 GW of wind capacity. In early 2025, the latest auctions added 800 MW of solar and 1.2 GW of wind capacity, bringing the total awarded capacity to 7.8 GW.

As part of the Renewable Energy Roadmap, Turkey’s Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MENR) has set an ambitious target for 2035, aiming to allocate 2 GW of capacity annually through YEKA auctions. Additionally, by the end of 2025, another 2 GW of capacity is expected to be implemented.

Furthermore, Turkey has increased its wind and solar capacity targets by 45 percent in the National Energy Plan, aiming to nearly triple its current capacity from 32 GW to 120 GW by 2035. If MENR meets its goal of 1 GW annually for solar and wind projects through YEKA auctions, these projects would contribute only one-fifth of the required solar capacity and one-third of the wind energy targets. This shortfall has led to the new target of 2 GW per year.

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Challenges in Implementation

While YEKA auctions have provided a solid framework, project implementation has encountered several difficulties. As of February 2025, only about one-quarter of the awarded capacity has been put into operation. YEKA projects have contributed just 9 percent to Turkey’s installed solar capacity and 5 percent to wind energy. If all awarded capacities had been operational, growth rates would have reached 18 percent for solar and an impressive 47 percent for wind power.

A major obstacle in project execution has been excessive bureaucracy in the permitting process, with delays in obtaining necessary approvals. Securing technical permits, land use licenses, environmental impact assessments, and construction approvals can take years.

Another challenge stems from YEKA’s local content requirements, which mandate a portion of renewable energy equipment to be manufactured in Turkey rather than imported. While this policy supports domestic production, the limited number of factories capable of meeting these requirements has forced investors to rely on a small pool of suppliers, driving up costs and straining supply chains.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Omkar Jadhav)

Reforms to Address Challenges

To address these challenges, Turkey amended YEKA regulations at the end of 2024. Key changes include exemptions from energy transmission fees, MENR support in obtaining permits, and the introduction of a „super permit” initiative, which reduces the permitting process from four years to less than two years.

Additionally, Turkey has significant potential for floating solar panels, which could provide up to 53 GW of energy. Regulatory changes in May 2024 now allow renewable energy facilities to be developed on offshore locations, reservoirs, and lakes, eliminating the need for urban planning approval. These areas can be designated as YEKA zones and allocated for projects.

By leveraging these opportunities and overcoming previous obstacles, Turkey can accelerate renewable energy deployment by streamlining bureaucratic processes, shortening permit approval times, and providing flexible options for electricity sales. The 2025 YEKA auctions will be a critical test for these reforms and could shape the future of Turkey’s renewable energy market.

Energetski portal

The Future of Solar Energy in the Balkans

Photo: SolarSK
Photo: SolarSK

Renewable energy sources are becoming the cornerstone of the global transition toward a more sustainable future, with companies like SolarSK playing a key role in this process. As a leader in the solar energy industry in Eastern Europe, SolarSK is at the forefront of developing innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of local markets and the challenges of modern times.

We spoke with Yevgeny Yaremenko, the founder and CEO of SolarSK, about the company’s key milestones, project management approach, adaptation to local markets, and long-term vision. He shared insights on how SolarSK remains committed to quality, innovation, and sustainability, even under challenging circumstances, and how it contributes to the energy transition in the Balkans and beyond.

Q: What key milestones would you highlight as turning points in the development of SolarSK, and how have they shaped your current business operations?

A: Since our establishment in 2012 as Solar Steelconstruction, we have consistently focused on delivering high-quality and reliable solutions in solar energy. Starting as a steel processing company, we quickly became a leader in Eastern Europe’s renewable energy sector. Key milestones include expanding our portfolio to over 30 types of mounting systems, including ground-mounted systems, rooftop solutions, carport systems, agrivoltaics, and tracking systems. We have successfully delivered over 4 GW of systems across 30 countries. Our transition to EPC and Light-EPC services enabled us to offer complete solutions, including project installation. Today, we operate across Scandinavia, the Baltics, Eastern Europe, and the Balkans, supported by a dedicated team of over 400 experts and 100 specialized machines. These milestones have positioned us as a reliable partner for renewable energy projects in diverse markets, including the Balkans.

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Q: How does SolarSK ensure that its products and mounting systems meet strict European quality and safety standards, and how do certifications contribute to building client trust?

A: SolarSK is fully committed to maintaining the highest European quality and safety standards. Our processes and products are certified according to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, EN 1090-1,4, and SA8000 standards. These certifications validate our dedication to quality, environmental responsibility, and workplace safety, providing clients with confidence in our commitment to excellence. We continually invest in new technology, processes, and employee training to comply with stringent industry requirements and optimize processes. This approach has helped us build long-term trust with clients and partners across the Balkans and Europe, delivering reliable and sustainable solutions for renewable energy projects.

Q: Can you explain the process of managing solar projects, from design to construction and long-term maintenance, and how your warranties provide security for clients?

A: Our EPC approach ensures seamless project execution, covering the entire lifecycle of solar installations — from initial design to construction, monitoring, and long-term maintenance. We work closely with clients during the design phase to tailor solutions to their specific needs. During construction, we prioritize time management, safety, and quality control. Post-construction, we offer comprehensive warranties and ongoing support to ensure the longterm reliability of the systems. With over 500 MW of completed projects, including a 100 MW installation in Poland and 120 MW currently underway in Latvia, we have refined our processes to achieve outstanding results. Our well-coordinated logistics network ensures timely delivery to any location in the Balkans or beyond.

Interview by Milena Maglovski

The inteview was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Germany Installed the Most Wind Turbines in Europe in 2024

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (jason-mavrommatis)

Over the past year, Germany reaffirmed its leading position in Europe by installing more wind turbines than any other country on the continent. According to data from WindEurope, new onshore and offshore installations exceeded 4 GW, placing Germany ahead of the United Kingdom (around 1.9 GW), France (1.7 GW), and Finland (1.4 GW).

In 2024, a total of 13 GW of new wind energy capacity was installed in the European Union, which fell short of expectations. Experts from WindEurope attributed this decline to several challenges facing the industry, including grid congestion, complex permitting procedures, and unfavorable financial conditions.

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The growth of offshore wind energy was further slowed by limited port capacities and a shortage of suitable vessels for transporting and installing turbines.

Despite these obstacles, the continent added a total of 16.4 GW of wind energy in 2024, bringing the total capacity to 285 GW.

However, as WindEurope emphasizes, to meet the EU’s climate goals by 2030, the annual wind power installation rate must reach 30 GW.

Energy portal

What Happens When Almost an Entire Country Loses Power – Chile’s Curfew

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Bailey Hall)

Chile experienced one of the most severe power outages in the last decade on February 25, 2025, when an unexpected collapse of the electrical system in the afternoon hours led to a blackout in more than 90 percent of the country, including the capital, Santiago.

Millions of citizens were left without electricity for nearly nine hours, causing traffic chaos, disrupting emergency services, and leading to the temporary closure of the metro system and numerous stores.

The government quickly declared a state of emergency and imposed a curfew. All major hospital centers and prisons had backup generators, preventing a complete collapse. However, Santiago’s metro system, which transports more than two million passengers daily, had to urgently evacuate people from trains and suspend operations, according to international media reports.

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In many parts of the country, people were trapped in elevators. In banks and other financial institutions, nearly all operations were halted, raising concerns about potential economic losses.

According to official reports, power was restored to approximately 90 percent of households in the early hours of Wednesday, February 26, while some areas remained without stable electricity supply.

As the country awaits an official report, many believe that this incident could lead to a reassessment of the current private management model of the energy sector and greater state investment in grid security.

Energy portal

Microplastics – The Invisible Culprit Behind the Rise in Neurological Disorders?

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Robina Weermeijer)

Once again, scientists have surprised us with new findings about microplastics – and this time, they are far from reassuring. A study conducted by the American Academy of Neurology has revealed a concerning link between the presence of marine microplastics and an increased risk of disability among people living in coastal areas.

The preliminary study, which will be presented at the 77th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology in April this year, suggests that residents of coastal regions with high levels of marine microplastics face a greater risk of disabilities affecting memory, thinking, mobility, and self-care abilities compared to those living in less polluted environments.

After analyzing data from 218 coastal counties in the U.S., researchers reached alarming conclusions: in areas with the highest levels of microplastics, memory and cognitive impairments were recorded in 15.2 percent of the population, compared to 13.9 percent in areas with lower levels. Mobility-related disabilities were present in 14.1 percent of residents in highly polluted areas, compared to 12.3 percent in less polluted regions.

When it comes to self-care abilities, the average prevalence of disability was 8.5 percent in counties with the highest levels of microplastics, compared to 7.7 percent in counties with the lowest levels.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Karina Vorozheeva)

Although the study does not prove that microplastics directly cause disability, it does show a clear correlation. Scientists accounted for other factors that may affect health issues, such as air pollution, heart disease, stroke, depression, and economic conditions, yet even after these adjustments, a significant link remained between microplastic levels and disability rates.

How Do Microplastics Affect Health?

Microplastics can enter the human body through inhalation and the consumption of seafood. Studies have shown that airborne microplastics can reach the lungs, causing inflammation and oxidative stress. Additionally, research has confirmed that fish and shellfish ingest microplastics, which then enter the food chain and ultimately reach humans.

Several scientific papers suggest that microplastics can trigger inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in cells, potentially contributing to neurological disorders. Moreover, microplastics bind to toxic substances in the environment, including heavy metals and chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA), which may impact the endocrine and nervous systems. There is also evidence that microplastics can interfere with normal immune functions, increasing the risk of disease.

Nevertheless, it is encouraging that numerous scientific teams worldwide are dedicated to researching microplastics – an issue we were largely unaware of just a few years ago. Studies like this help us better understand potential health risks and work towards solutions to reduce plastic pollution. Some key measures include improving plastic waste management, banning products containing microplastics, and developing new water purification technologies.

The question remains: what other secrets does microplastic hold, and how can we protect ourselves from it? Science continues to explore its impact, while our awareness and responsible behavior can play a crucial role in preventing its further spread.

Milena Maglovski

Postponement of Sanctions on Naftna Industrija Srbije for 30 Days

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

The Minister of Mining and Energy of the Government of the Republic of Serbia, Dubravka Đedović Handanović, announced that the U.S. sanctions on Naftna Industrija Srbije (NIS) have been postponed for 30 days.

Đedović Handanović stated that the Serbian side received information last night from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury confirming that the request for a postponement of sanctions had been approved.

The minister clarified that this postponement does not apply to U.S. citizens or the American financial system, warning that anyone holding, for example, a U.S. passport would still be at risk of being placed on the OFAC sanctions list.

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Furthermore, as reported on the Serbian government’s website, the United States has acknowledged the importance of NIS for the overall system, including healthcare, law enforcement, and the general functioning of both Serbia and the region.

However, the minister emphasized that this does not mark the end of the issue.

She expressed hope that a sustainable resolution to the conflict in Ukraine would be found, which could further influence political agreements involving the economy and sanctions against the Russian Federation.

Energy portal

Almost 48 Million Europeans Cannot Afford Heating – Half of Them Are Employed

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Sandra Grunewald)

As temperatures drop, the number of people across the European Union who are unable to heat their homes is rising. New data published by the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) reveals that the number of people living in energy poverty reached 47.5 million in 2023.

In 2019, around seven percent of the EU population – approximately 30.7 million people – could not afford to heat their homes. By 2023, this percentage had risen to 10.6 percent, with 23.7 million workers affected by energy poverty.

Once a problem primarily affecting the socially disadvantaged, energy poverty is now increasingly impacting employed individuals, many of whom work in industries struggling to survive due to rising energy costs.

The European Trade Union Confederation is calling for urgent measures to prevent further job losses and declining living standards, including energy price controls, a ban on electricity disconnections for vulnerable households, increased investment in renewable energy, and fair wages.

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„The time for discussion is over – urgent action at the EU level is needed to reduce energy bills for industries, businesses, and households and to ensure the right to clean, affordable energy, recognizing energy as a public good”, said Esther Lynch, General Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation.

ETUC is urging immediate and stricter regulation of the energy market to prevent speculative trading and protect citizens and businesses from volatile prices. Trade unions emphasize that energy is a public good and that its distribution and pricing should not be governed solely by market mechanisms but through responsible state policies that ensure fair resource allocation and long-term stability.

Additionally, ETUC highlights the need to decouple electricity prices from gas prices to establish a fairer and more stable pricing system. To this end, trade unions propose the creation of a European Energy Agency to coordinate energy policies, monitor market trends, and prevent abuses that lead to increased costs for households and industry.

Milena Maglovski 

A Guardian Of the Environment From Ljusina

Photo: Almir Dervišević

U nfortunately, natural resources are invaluable treasures that we often fail to appreciate. This is evident in the many illegal dumpsites and trash left behind by careless individuals. It’s not uncommon to see riverbanks, meadows, and roadside areas covered with plastic bags and various types of waste, which not only mar the beauty of nature but also seriously pollute it. Many of these materials, such as plastic and metal, are difficult to decompose and remain in the environment for decades. However, despite the negative impacts of our bad habits, there are those who tirelessly work to preserve nature in a somewhat unconventional way.

In the small town of Ljusina, near Bosanska Krupa, lives Almir Dervišević, an environmental activist who has been dedicated to protecting his local environment for several years. In his free time, he collects waste and organizes cleanup campaigns, joined by his fellow townspeople.

“My interest in ecology began a few years ago when I noticed a lot of trash and waste around us, and no one was doing anything to address it. So, I decided to focus on cleaning forests, roads, villages, and the banks of the Una River,” says Dervišević.

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To date, he has covered kilometers of roads, collecting hundreds of trash bags, but this effort has never been a problem for him. His work has become well-recognized in the community, and others have started joining him.

Photo: Almir Dervišević

“I began organizing waste collection campaigns, and when I organize them, five to eight volunteers usually join me. So far, I’ve had many successful campaigns. I usually clean on weekends, which takes about four to five hours. My good friend Razim Dervić helps me the most,” Almir adds.

He points out that he most often finds cans, bottles, and other waste along roadsides. He hopes that people who throw trash out of their vehicles will begin to recognize the harm their actions cause and will take more care in the future. Everything he collects is packed into large bags, which the local utility service then transports to the municipal landfill in Bosanska Krupa.

At the beginning of his efforts, people were surprised by his commitment, but over time, he gained the support of his fellow citizens. Although he has mainly focused on cleaning his immediate surroundings, Almir plans to expand his activities to other towns.

“I believe littering could be reduced if laws were stricter and those polluting nature were penalized. I think that people who pollute our beautiful nature lack self-respect because if they respected themselves, they wouldn’t do what they do to nature. I fight against such behavior and always will. I would like stricter laws and penalties to reduce the amount of waste. I believe that’s the only right way. Besides, we all need to be responsible and not litter. Personally, I would love to see every town organize similar actions so that we can all work together to preserve our beautiful nature,” Dervišević emphasizes.

Prepared by Jasna Dragojević

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Ghana on Track to Become One of the First West African Countries with a Large-Scale Nuclear Power Plant

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

Ghana’s current energy mix is primarily based on hydropower and thermal power plants that use gas and petroleum derivatives. Hydropower has traditionally been considered a stable and relatively inexpensive source of electricity in this West African country, while growing electricity demand is increasingly incorporating thermal capacity based on natural gas and oil.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Jakob Madsen)

According to GlobalData analyses, hydropower capacity accounted for 15.4 percent of total global power installations in 2023 (1,407 GW), and it is expected to reach 10.9 percent by the end of 2030, with total capacity increasing to 1,562 GW. Of this global hydropower capacity, only 0.11 percent belongs to Ghana. Currently, Ghana is planning several major hydropower projects to strengthen its energy mix: the Akosombo hydrokinetic plant (100 MW) in Eastern Ghana, the Lanke hydropower plant (95 MW) in the Upper West region, the Juale hydropower plant (90 MW) in the northern part of the country, the Ntereso plant (64 MW), also in the Northern region, and the Hemang plant (60 MW), which is expected to be operational by 2025.

New Initiatives in Ghana’s Energy Sector

In recent years, Ghana has been actively working on introducing nuclear energy. In September 2023, Nuclear Power Ghana officially announced that the Nsuban site in the Western Region had been selected as the primary location for the country’s first nuclear power plant, while the Obotan site in the Central Region was proposed as a backup.

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First IAEA Mission to Ghana for Site Assessment

Last week, Ghana hosted its first-ever IAEA mission of this kind, with four experts from Pakistan, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States visiting the country. The mission was conducted at the request of the Ghanaian government and was hosted by Nuclear Power Ghana.

The IAEA team reviewed the site selection methodology, including the selection report, collected data, and applied criteria. Experts visited the designated site in the Western Region and the backup location in the Central Region to ensure that these proposals meet safety requirements. Their assessment covered seismic risks, potential flooding, extreme climate conditions, and the necessary infrastructure for emergency response plans, as reported by World Nuclear News.

The final report on the mission’s findings is expected to be submitted to the Ghanaian government within the next three months, while the IAEA will continue to provide advice and support throughout the permitting process for the future nuclear power plant.

If everything proceeds as planned, Ghana could become one of the first countries in West Africa with a large-scale nuclear facility, significantly contributing to economic progress and energy independence in the region.

Energy portal

Over 11 Billion Euros for Strengthening Europe’s Wind Energy Supply Chain

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

A favorable trend in strengthening the European industry that manufactures wind power equipment is being recorded across Europe. More than 30 European factories are currently expanding or under construction. New production lines for cables, as reported by WindEurope, are being developed in Belgium, Finland, France, Greece, Italy, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Additionally, factories for wind turbine manufacturing are also expanding. Specifically, production facilities for turbine nacelles, blades, towers, and central components are being developed in Denmark, France, Poland, Italy, and the United Kingdom.

Over the past two years, more than 11 billion euros in investments have been announced for this supply chain. Giles Dickson, CEO of WindEurope, emphasized that these efforts are creating thousands of jobs and strengthening Europe’s competitiveness. As a reminder, the Net Zero Industry Act sets a goal of 36 GW of wind energy production capacity in the European Union by 2030, and such efforts are crucial for achieving this target.

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Some notable examples come from factories such as Sif, which is investing over €300 million to expand its production line, expected to be fully operational in the first half of 2025. This factory produces monopiles—large steel foundations for offshore wind turbines—which are essential for meeting the growing demand for wind energy in the North Sea. Additionally, Siemens Gamesa in Le Havre has announced a 200 million euros investment to expand the production of 14 MW turbine blades, creating 200 new jobs and increasing capacity to meet Europe’s energy needs.

On the other hand, the Port of Rotterdam is supporting the electrification of shipping operations, facilitating the production of renewable hydrogen, and offering discounts on maritime fees for ships with higher environmental standards.

Energy portal

What Is Community Solar Energy That Broke the Record in the American Community?

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Michael_Pointner)

The United States recorded growth in community solar energy (also known as community solar) during 2024, when a total of 1.7 gigawatts (GW) of new capacity was installed nationwide. This represents an increase of about 35 percent compared to the previous year, bringing the total capacity of community solar power plants in the US to 8.6 GW.

Community solar energy refers to a model that allows multiple individuals or businesses to share the benefits of a single solar system, even though the panels are not necessarily installed on every user’s property. Instead, they have the option to subscribe to a portion of the output from a solar park located elsewhere. Citizens who live in buildings without access to a roof suitable for solar panels, or those who cannot afford the initial installation costs, can still benefit from solar technology through community solar.

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New York, Maine, and Illinois – each individually broke their own records and together accounted for over 80 percent of the total new installations. An analysis conducted by Wood Mackenzie and the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA) states that this surge is partly due to stable state programs, particularly the support mechanisms that were active at that time. At the same time, new states entering the field of community solar energy—such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Georgia—are still establishing legal and regulatory foundations, so their projects are not yet ready to immediately offset any potential decline in the more established centers.

Forecasts from Wood Mackenzie indicate that the annual growth rate of community solar may decrease by about eight percent on average by 2029, but the total capacity could still rise to 15 GW.

The potential of community solar is especially highlighted for low-income households, which often do not have the means to independently finance solar systems.

Energy Portal

Young People’s Views on Climate Change: Thermal Power Plants as the Main Source of Pollution

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Hassan Afridhi)

A study conducted as part of the project „Raising Awareness about Climate Change and Energy Transition in Serbia” under SAFE Nature and Climate 2022-2025 revealed how aware young people are of the impact of climate change on their daily lives. The study involved 525 young individuals aged 18 to 30 from all parts of Serbia, with 16 of them participating in focus groups. The results were presented by Nenad Spasojević from the Center for Policy and Strategy Creation at the event „Youth, Climate Change, and Energy Transition: What They Really Think, Know, and Expect?”, organized by the OIE Serbia Association.

As the first association with climate change, young people most often mentioned global warming, followed by heatwaves, the greenhouse effect, adverse weather conditions, and adaptation. In their opinion, the biggest contributors to climate change in Serbia are thermal power plants, as well as outdated industrial production methods, individual heating systems, uncontrolled dumps, and agriculture.

When asked whether there is a negative correlation between the use of fossil fuels and the development of climate change, as many as 69 percent of the young people responded affirmatively, emphasizing that fossil fuels are one of the main sources of climate change. Meanwhile, 24 percent believed that although the correlation exists, fossil fuels are not the primary factor and their impact is not decisive. Only five percent of the respondents stated that there is no negative correlation.

One of the key questions was how much climate change affects the daily lives of young people. On a scale from one to five, where five indicates the most severe negative impact, the average rating was 3.53. As the greatest negative effect of climate change, 47 percent of young people identified high temperatures, 19 percent cited droughts, 14 percent noted heatwaves, and 13 percent pointed to heavy rainfall. Only three percent of the respondents believe that climate change will not have a negative impact.

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The first association that young people have with the term „green transition” is renewable energy sources, followed by sustainable development, solar panels, and environmental protection, while other responses include electric vehicles, EU regulations, and a just transition.

Young people primarily get their information about climate change and energy transition through social networks (52 percent) and internet portals (22 percent), while 15 percent acquire knowledge from people in their surroundings. Television and print media together account for only 11 percent of the sources of information.

Regarding the potential of renewable energy sources in Serbia, 42 percent of young people believe that solar energy has the greatest capacity for additional energy production, followed by hydropower (22 percent), wind energy (19 percent), geothermal energy (8 percent), biomass (6 percent), and biogas (3 percent).

During a panel discussion at the event, Jovana Joksimović, Assistant Minister of Mining and Energy for International Cooperation and European Integration, emphasized that it is encouraging that young people are interested in the green and energy transition and that there is awareness about the impact of the energy sector on climate change. She also stressed that it is important they have recognized these changes as an opportunity and are willing to listen to, understand, and embrace them, which is of great importance for Serbia.

Danijela Isailović, manager of the OIE Serbia Association, noted that 10 to 15 years ago no one was systematically tracking how developed the awareness of young people was regarding the impact of climate change and energy transition. However, significant progress in public opinion is evident compared to the early days of the Association’s work, when negative comments and ignorance were much more prevalent. Through a positive campaign, they have succeeded in providing young people with proper education, which is now reflected in their increased interest—they are writing to them more frequently, following their work, and wanting to actively participate in what they do.

The Association’s manager also added that she regrets that biomass is not better represented among young people, especially considering that Serbia has cities with district heating systems that use this energy source. She emphasized that a stronger campaign, similar to the one for solar energy, would be very beneficial, as biomass is an extremely valuable resource. She also noted that the time for geothermal energy is yet to come.

Tea Požar from New Energy Solution also confirmed how important the education of young people is for the success of the energy transition. By presenting experiences from abroad, especially from Germany and the Netherlands, where the transition has advanced significantly, she stressed that for a similar development in Serbia, additional education for young people, as well as a change in cultural habits, is essential.

Katarina Vuinac

Legal Framework for ESG Issues in Serbia

Photo-illustration: Pixabay/VBlock
Photo: Courtesy of Milica Pešterić

In recent years, issues related to the environment, society, and corporate governance have gained increasing importance in both the global and domestic business landscapes. Serbia has laws regulating these areas, but questions arise as to how aligned they are with European standards and how effectively they are applied in practice. While there have been positive developments in the implementation of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles, Serbian businesses and lawmakers still face numerous challenges. We discussed this important topic with Milica Pešterić, partner at the law firm Drašković Popović & Partners.

Q: How would you assess the current legal framework regarding ESG issues in Serbia?

A: In Serbia, there are legal regulations covering the environment, labor relations, occupational safety and health, respect for human rights, personal data protection and privacy, corporate governance, and almost everything else that constitutes ESG. Additionally, there are provisions on non-financial reporting within accounting and auditing laws. However, the extensive European legislation, which is evolving dynamically in this area, has not been adequately transposed, nor have state policies and strategies been devised to determine how domestic companies will navigate aligning their operations with ESG requirements, whether they are directly obligated or affected through value (supply) chains.

The primary initiative still lies with the companies themselves. However, it is easier for those who are part of international groups, as they can transfer policies and strategies from the group level and implement them more quickly locally.

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Q: What changes would you like to see in the future regarding ESG principles, both in legislation and business practices?

A: There is a lot, but I would highlight two key points. First, I hope the Women on Board Directive will be transposed into Serbian legislation through amendments to the Law on Business Companies. This would be accompanied by the implementation of leadership development programs for women in decision-making positions modeled after those of other Western Balkan countries. The primary goal of such programs is to strengthen and promote women’s leadership potential for participation on the boards of large corporations and prepare the business environment for the implementation of this directive.

The directive aims to improve gender balance among company directors and implement measures similar to those in force in the EU. Large companies in the EU are required to achieve at least 40 percent representation of non-executive board members or 33 percent of all directors from the underrepresented gender (i.e., women) by June 30, 2026.

The selection of candidates must be based on clear criteria and a comparative analysis of their qualifications. The criteria must be clear, gender-neutral, and unambiguous. Candidates are assessed based on their individual qualifications and merits, regardless of gender. Quality, competence, and professional capability are the key factors in the selection process. Companies that fail to meet the directive’s targets must submit a report explaining their reasons and the measures they are taking to address the shortfall. This directive represents a significant step toward achieving gender equality in corporate governance across the EU, fostering transparency, objectivity, and meritocracy in board member selection.

The second important point is the successful implementation of ESG criteria in the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector, which I currently see as a significant challenge. To remain competitive within the value (supply) chain, SMEs will require comprehensive institutional support on this journey.

Q: What are some of the positive effects you’ve observed in companies that have implemented ESG standards?

A: I would highlight the understanding of ESG compliance as an opportunity, a chance, and a benefit rather than an imposed obligation. Primarily, this involves recognizing that ESG-compliant companies have access to various forms of green financing, creating opportunities for further business development. Beyond that, the business community has generally realized the importance of environmental protection, biodiversity, green energy, uncompromising respect for human and labor rights, and other ESG elements.

Interview by Milica Radičević

The inteview was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Volvo Trucks at Bauma in Munich: New Vehicles and Technologies Supporting the Path to Zero Emissions

Photo: Volvo Truck

Volvo Trucks is attending the Bauma 2025 exhibition to showcase its commitment to decarbonizing transport in the construction industry. The company will present a wide range of products and technologies that enable sustainable transport—both today and in the future.

At Bauma, Volvo will display trucks powered by battery-electric drivetrains, hydrogen fuel cells, and renewable fuels such as biogas in internal combustion engines. These technologies form the company’s threefold strategic approach to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, supporting the construction industry in transitioning to sustainable transport both now and in the years ahead.

Leader in Electric Vehicles for the Construction Sector

Photo: Volvo Trucks

Volvo is a global leader in the battery-electric truck segment, holding a 51 percent market share in Europe, 40 percent in North America, and having delivered more than 4,900 electric trucks worldwide, many of which are used in the construction industry. Volvo began series production of electric trucks in 2019, and its extensive product portfolio enables the decarbonization of the entire construction transport chain—including transport trucks, concrete mixers, concrete pumps, tippers, cranes, and semi-trailer trucks. At Bauma, Volvo will exhibit trucks at its own booth as well as at customer booths.

“I am very proud that we have the broadest range of electric trucks for the construction industry. Today, an entrepreneur can buy almost any Volvo truck model as an electric version and be confident that it will deliver excellent productivity and performance,” says Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks.

“Electric transport is highly suitable for the construction segment because it offers zero tailpipe emissions and significantly reduced noise. This benefits people living near construction sites, those working on-site, and, of course, the climate.”

Beyond electric drivetrains, Volvo will also present its trucks compatible with renewable fuels such as biogas and HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil). All Volvo trucks are certified for HVO and biodiesel B100.

“We have a broad range of zero-emission solutions, meaning we can support our customers regardless of where they are on their decarbonization journey. Our trucks that run on biogas, biodiesel, or HVO are excellent options for customers looking to reduce CO2 emissions immediately,” adds Roger Alm.

A Complete Zero-Emission Solution with Trucks and Machines

Photo: Volvo Trucks

At Bauma 2025, Volvo will also demonstrate its unique ability to enable fully fossil-free construction site operations, thanks to its portfolio of zero-emission trucks and construction machines.

“We have a unique position as a partner that can provide both premium trucks and high-quality construction machines. We believe this complete solution is an attractive proposition for many companies,” says Roger Alm.

Volvo Models on Display at Bauma 2025

The Volvo exhibit will feature two trucks:

Volvo FH Electric, a 6×2 truck with a crane

Volvo FMX Electric, a 6×4 truck with a three-way tipper

Bauma visitors can find the Volvo booth in Hall C6. Volvo Trucks’ press conference will be held on the morning of April 8.

Additionally, Volvo Trucks and Putzmeister will jointly unveil a special electric application at the Putzmeister booth in Hall B6 on April 7.

Volvo electric trucks will also be displayed at the booths of other partners, including Liebherr, Meiller, MTS, Putzmeister, and Schwing Stetter.

Source: Volvo Trucks

Limited Progress of the EU Towards Environmental Goals

Photo-illustration: Freepik (AI)

The assessment by the European Environment Agency (EEA) provides an overview of progress in achieving the objectives set within the 8th Environment Action Programme (EAP), which serves as the framework for the EU’s environmental policy until 2030. Progress is measured through 28 key indicators and targets, covering areas such as climate neutrality, resource efficiency, biodiversity restoration, and pollution reduction.

The report indicates that the EU is still not on track to achieve many of the set objectives, with progress remaining limited compared to the previous 2023 assessment. These findings highlight the urgent need for decisive action to ensure the consistent implementation of the European Green Deal policies and the achievement of goals by 2030. The progress evaluation system uses four ratings: on track, likely on track, likely off track, and off track.

Climate Change

In the area of climate change mitigation, two key targets were analyzed. The reduction of net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 55 percent by 2030, compared to 1990 levels, was assessed as likely on track. On the other hand, the goal of increasing net carbon removals through carbon sinks in the LULUCF sector (land use, land-use change, and forestry) to -310 million tons of CO₂ equivalent by 2030 was rated as off track, indicating an urgent need for measures to ensure its achievement.

In the area of climate change adaptation, both analyzed targets – reducing overall financial losses from weather and climate-related disasters and reducing the areas affected by drought and vegetation productivity loss – were assessed as likely off track.

Circular Economy and Waste Reduction

In the domain of a regenerative circular economy, both targets were also assessed as likely off track. This refers to the need for a significant reduction in the EU’s material footprint by decreasing the amount of raw materials required for production, as well as a significant reduction in overall waste generation by 2030.

Pollution and Environmental Quality

In the area of zero pollution and a toxic-free environment, assessments were mixed. While the goal of reducing premature mortality due to air pollution by 55 percent by 2030, compared to 2005 levels, was rated as on track, another target – reducing nutrient losses by at least 50 percent in safe groundwater reserves – was assessed as likely off track.

More:

Biodiversity and Ecosystems

The biodiversity and ecosystems area includes four targets, all of which were rated as likely off track. The first two relate to the legal protection of at least 30 percent of the EU’s land and marine areas by 2030. The third target concerns halting the decline of common bird populations, while the fourth involves increasing the connectivity of forest ecosystems to create ecological corridors and enhance resilience to climate change.

Production and Consumption

The area of environmental and climate pressures linked to production and consumption recorded some of the poorest results. Out of five targets, three were assessed as likely off track, while two were considered off track. The targets assessed as off track include doubling the circular material use rate by 2030 compared to 2020 and increasing the share of organic farming to 25 percent of the EU’s total agricultural land by 2030.

Sustainable Lifestyles and Planetary Boundaries

In the area of living within planetary boundaries, out of six targets, three were assessed as likely off track – ensuring zero net land conversion by 2050, reducing water scarcity, and reducing ecological inequalities through a just transition. More positive results were recorded in two targets assessed as on track, which relate to increasing the share of the green economy and green jobs. However, the target of significantly reducing the EU’s consumption footprint was rated as off track.

Enabling Conditions

The final area concerns enabling conditions, where five targets were set, and this category received the best ratings compared to the other areas. The assessment shows that two targets are on track – increasing the level of eco-innovation as a driver of the green transition and increasing investments by households, businesses, and governments in preventing, reducing, and eliminating pollution and other forms of environmental degradation. The targets related to increasing the issuance of green bonds to stimulate public and private financing of green investments and increasing the share of environmental taxes in total tax and social contribution revenues were assessed as likely on track. The only target rated as likely off track was reducing environmentally harmful subsidies, particularly fossil fuel subsidies, with a recommendation for their prompt elimination.

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