In the face of global conflicts, economic challenges and Serbia’s own political complexities, focusing on nature and sustainability might seem secondary. And yet it is these basic elemental forces – land, water, and sun – that form the bedrock of our existence. Amidst these turbulent times, the need to preserve our natural systems becomes not just relevant, but essential
The threat of climate change is real and present, as demonstrated by the severe supercell storms witnessed in Serbia last summer. In recognition of this growing challenge, the country has seen some notable developments aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The government held its first renewable energy auction in 2023, with the target of adding over 400 MW of mainly wind power. Meanwhile, the growing number of prosumers – households, residential buildings and companies – installing rooftop solar installations now stands at over 2,300, which reflects a gradual but sizable shift in energy consumption and production practices.
Solar energy in particular represents a significant growth opportunity. The Nature Conservancy’s project to identify 100 optimal locations for solar photovoltaic plants in Serbia promotes the expansion of renewable energy, while also prioritising the conservation of biodiversity and agricultural land. TNC’s detailed mapping provides a thoughtful approach to solar development, balancing ecological and energy needs.
While Serbia’s journey to environmental sustainability is an ongoing process, these initiatives represent significant steps in the right direction. They reflect a growing awareness and effort to utilise natural resources responsibly, preserve biodiversity and pave the way to a more sustainable future
This is a critical balance to strike not only for Serbia, but for all the countries that committed, under the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework of December 2022, to protect 30 per cent of all land, inland waters and coastal and marine areas by The inland water target is particularly relevant for Serbia, given that it faces the long-term threat of water scarcity due to climate change. The protection of freshwater ecosystems is vital, not only for endangered species like endemic trout, but also for the local communities that rely on rivers.
Serbia is also making progress in this area, with the recent designation of Potamisje as a protected area. Moreover, the proposal to safeguard the Veliki Rzav river as a special nature reserve not only aligns with the regional United for Rivers initiative, but also marks another positive step in conservation efforts. If successful, the proposal will ensure the protection of 51 kilometres of this vital ecosystem.
