2025
Name of the Network/Organization: RERI
Project title: Horizons Without Pollution: Public Participation in Legislative Reform and Procedures for Effective Control and Protection Against Industrial Pollution
Project partners: /
Project duration: May – November 2025
Through the project “Horizons Without Pollution”, RERI contributes to strengthening transparency and improving the legislative and institutional framework in line with EU standards. Special emphasis is placed on greater involvement of citizens, civil society, experts, and decision-makers in reform processes and in the implementation of measures related to the control and prevention of industrial pollution in Serbia.
The project focuses on advocating for stronger and more consistent application of integrated pollution prevention and control (IPPC) standards, as well as greater transparency in decision-making processes that affect environmental quality. Through expert analyses, preparation of recommendations and guidelines, organization of public discussions, and media campaigns, the project facilitates the connection between the expert community, members of parliament, local councilors, and citizens to jointly shape more effective laws and institutional solutions.
The goal is to influence environmental policies and legislation by advocating for stricter control and penalization of polluters, the adoption of good practices from the European Union, and greater public, expert, and stakeholder participation in decision-making processes relevant to environmental protection.
“Horizons Without Pollution” creates space for fact-based public debate aimed at sustainable solutions. The project is implemented at the national level, with certain activities taking place directly in Belgrade, Niš, Bor, and Kragujevac—cities facing significant environmental challenges.
Name of the network/organization: Dendrosrbija
Project title: From Forests for Forests – Phase 4
Project partners: /
Project duration: May – November 2025
By implementing the project “From Forests for Forests” across Serbia, Dendrosrbija aims to encourage the participation of as many local self-governments as possible in establishing a sustainable system that will contribute to healthier and more resilient forests in the long term. The project focuses on improving forest management through greater transparency and more responsible use of dedicated funds collected from wood utilization (logging) fees at the local level.
Special emphasis is placed on training local self-governments (LSGs) to properly collect, record, and submit reports on the purposeful spending of these funds, in accordance with legal obligations and in the best interest of citizens. Project activities include training sessions for local officials, the creation and distribution of standardized reporting templates, monitoring the implementation of laws by local authorities, and a national advocacy campaign aimed at improving practices in this area.
The project also involves marginalized groups such as women forest owners and young people, as well as civil society organizations operating in communities without formal forest owners’ associations.
“From Forests for Forests” engages relevant institutions and strives to establish practical tools and a functional system that will enable better control, planning, and protection of forest ecosystems, in accordance with new legal regulations.
Name of the network/organization: Center for Modern Skills
Project title: The Power of the Green Community: Youth and Women for a Sustainable Future
Project partners: /
Project duration: June – November 2025
The project “The Power of the Green Community” aims to strengthen the role of young people and women in shaping and implementing local environmental policies. It is being implemented in Subotica, Novi Pazar, and Sremska Mitrovica, to improve institutional responses to climate challenges and provide ongoing support for community-led green initiatives, especially those driven by women and youth.
Through collaboration with youth offices, local self-governments, civil society organizations, media, and members of parliament, the project builds an intersectoral network that fosters sustainable development. Alongside improving existing local government policies and measures, it also focuses on empowering citizens particularly young people and women to take an active role in decision-making processes. Educational workshops, volunteering opportunities, and dialogue with policymakers encourage civic participation and strengthen local communities to recognize their role in shaping environmental decision-making.
The Power of the Green Community brings together citizens, experts, institutions, and civil society organizations to promote a culture of participation, gender equality, and sustainable development – aligned with European values and the needs of Serbian citizens. Special emphasis is placed on achieving lasting change that will continue to be visible in local communities long after the project concludes.
Name of the network/organization: Center for Environmental Improvement, Belgrade
Project title: Climate and Energy in the hand of citizens (KER)
Project partners: /
Project duration:June -November 2025
The project “Climate and Energy in the hand of citizens (KER)” aims to strengthen the capacities of the Center for Environmental Improvement to actively and professionally participate in the development and implementation of public policies in the fields of climate change and community energy. The focus is on empowering citizens and civil society organizations, developing models of citizen energy and energy communities, and improving the legislative framework for prosumers.
One of the project’s key goals is to enhance the role of civil society organizations and citizens in shaping and implementing climate and energy policies, with a particular emphasis on developing citizen energy and energy community models at both local and national levels. Project activities include research and analysis, presentation of innovative solutions, and establishing dialogue with institutions and the wider public to promote transparency and accountable governance in the energy and environmental sectors.
Additionally, the project contributes to improving the legislative and institutional framework for the development of prosumer models and energy communities, while strengthening citizens’ roles in the energy transition process. Special attention is given to engaging youth and women, as well as individuals interested in renewable energy use – including existing prosumers, who both produce and consume energy. The analysis of European energy community models and an overview of climate policies in Belgrade provide a basis for applying practical and sustainable solutions in the local context. Citizens are informed and engaged through public events, media content, and podcasts, helping to bring the concept of community energy closer to a broader audience.
The project “Climate and Energy in the hand of citizens (KER)” contributes to a just energy transition in Serbia by empowering citizens, improving policies, and fostering dialogue on community energy, connecting expert solutions with community needs and developing sustainable, inclusive energy models.
Name of the network/organization: Voluntary Firefighting Association Kraljevo
Project title: At Least One Fire Less
Project partners: Voluntary Firefighting Association “Padobranac” from Bogutovac, Voluntary Firefighting Association “Mataruška Banja” from Mataruška Banja, Voluntary Firefighting Association “Studenica” from Studenica, and Voluntary Firefighting Association “Vrba” from Vrba.
Project duration: June – November 2025
The project “At Least One Fire Less” aims to reduce the risk of forest fires and strengthen nature protection by empowering local communities in the Kraljevo area, including the settlements of Bogutovac, Mataruška Banja, Vrba, and Studenica. The project places special focus on young people, educational institutions, farmers, and voluntary firefighting associations, with particular attention to the active involvement of women in local prevention and protection mechanisms. Educational campaigns and field activities aim to build stronger, more resilient communities.
By forming and equipping school firefighting clubs, training teachers, and organizing educational workshops and outdoor activities, primary school students in Kraljevo and residents of nearby settlements gain practical knowledge and skills for fire prevention and active environmental protection. In cooperation with local volunteer fire brigades, the project also promotes sustainable agricultural practices through volunteer actions, informational workshops, and public campaigns — reducing the use of risky methods such as burning crop residue, and thereby lowering the occurrence of forest fires.
Through the implementation of this project, community capacities for responsible environmental action are strengthened, creating connected, empowered, and prepared communities that actively contribute to nature conservation. The project will leave a lasting result with an eco-classroom and nature trail, giving young people in the community a space to explore, learn, and get involved in environmental activism
Name of the network/organization: Pokret gorana Novi Sad
Project title: Building Knowledge, Protecting Nature
Project partners: Dečija ekološka akademija Novi Sad *Children’s Ecological Academy
Project duration: June – November 2025
The project “Building Knowledge, Protecting Nature” aims to strengthen ecological awareness and knowledge among children, youth, and educators in Vojvodina, with a particular focus on communities in Novi Sad and Sremski Karlovci. One of the main goals of the project is to empower schools, local initiatives, and organizations engaged in education and environmental protection. Special emphasis is placed on involving young people in implementing local initiatives that promote responsible behavior towards nature.
Through experiential learning and connecting knowledge with concrete actions, young people are encouraged to actively engage in environmental protection. The project introduces innovative learning methods about the quality and preservation of air, water, and soil, linking theoretical knowledge with practical activities. This approach fosters hands-on learning and active participation of youth in environmental conservation while developing awareness of the importance of responsible interaction with nature. Educational and promotional materials (manuals, learning tools, and campaigns) are created and distributed to support the implementation of ecological programs in schools and local communities. Training sessions for educators and teachers are also planned, aiming to enhance their skills in creatively and effectively conveying environmental topics.
By establishing a strong connection between knowledge and practical action, “Building Knowledge, Protecting Nature” contributes to nurturing generations that will take an active role in their local communities and lays the foundation for long-term commitment to nature conservation across Vojvodina.
Name of the network/organization: Unekoop, Paraćin
Project title: Ecosystem-Based Adaptation
Project partners: “Arhus Center” Kragujevac, “GREEN LIMES” Novi Banovci, “SN Agrar” Paraćin-Glavica
Project duration: May – November 2025
The project “Ecosystem-Based Adaptation” aims to enhance the resilience of local communities in the Pomoravlje and Šumadija districts to the impacts of changing climatic conditions, relying on nature-based solutions. Through collaboration among civil society organizations, local governments, and experts, the project contributes to strengthening capacities for developing and implementing public policies that promote sustainable development and better adaptation to climate change.
Special emphasis is placed on gender perspectives and the inclusion of vulnerable groups in decision-making processes, as well as on transparent and inclusive monitoring and reporting of climate measures. Activities include research, public campaigns, training sessions, volunteer actions, and practical demonstrations. In cooperation with local governments, civil society organizations, and experts, a knowledge base and set of recommendations are created to help municipalities better understand their legal obligations and the needs of citizens. This approach opens the way for the practical implementation of concrete nature-based solutions. The project contributes to building local communities that are informed, engaged, and ready to respond to the challenges posed by climate change.
Network/Organization Name: Ecological Center “Stanište”
Project Name: What Our Forests Mean to Us: Initiative for higher evaluation general benefits of the forests
Project Partners: /
Project Duration: May – November 2025
The project “What Our Forests Mean to Us” aims to improve nature protection in Serbia by promoting a stronger recognition of the public benefit functions of forests and changing the way these values are considered in decision-making related to the management of protected areas.
The project involves conducting research, establishing dialogue, and implementing public campaigns to initiate important processes that recognize forests not only as sources of raw materials, but as vital ecosystems that directly influence human health, climate conditions, and the quality of life in local communities. A special focus is placed on strengthening the capacity of civil society organizations to actively participate in decision-making processes. Additionally, the project aims to foster dialogue with relevant institutions to reform the legal and strategic frameworks, enabling better protection of the public benefits that forests offer in protected areas.
The “What Our Forests Mean to Us” project is implemented in collaboration with relevant institutions, experts, and a network of civil society organizations, all focused on improving the management and protection of protected areas as defined by current regulations and other nature conservation laws.
Network/Organization Name: IDA Kraljevo – Association for the Development of the Ibar Valley
Project Name: Packaging Waste Has No Place in Protected Natural Areas – Goodbye Waste
Project Partners: Eco Center Belgrade, Association of Rudnо Households
Project Duration: May – November 2025
The project “Goodbye Waste!” is focused on contributing to the sustainable development of the Golija-Studenica Biosphere Reserve by establishing and improving a system for managing hazardous agricultural packaging waste. The project actively involves local farmers, civil society, youth, and public institutions in creating a sustainable model for collecting and managing packaging waste that threatens both nature and human health in this protected area.
The project aims to strengthen the capacities of local organizations and farmers in nature protection and waste management through education and training, while increasing their role in decision-making and implementing measures for effective management of agricultural packaging waste. Research on the attitudes and needs of the local community will provide a basis for recommendations, an action plan, and strategic planning for future waste management.
Through cross-sector collaboration among civil society, public institutions, and farmers, the project seeks to establish an efficient, sustainable system to tackle agricultural packaging waste in the Golija-Studenica Biosphere Reserve, while improving environmental protection and the quality of life for local residents.
Network/Organization Name: iRevolucija
Project Name: Air Under Control
Project Partners: Eco Barajevo Initiative, National Ecological Association
Project Duration: May – November 2025
The “Air Under Control” project aims to establish two digital cadastres of individual heating systems in selected local municipalities. These cadastres will serve as practical and efficient tools for monitoring and controlling air pollution emissions. Additionally, they will contribute to improved air quality and reduced energy poverty during and beyond the project’s duration, with ongoing expert support.
The project activities will engage local authorities, civil society organizations, and citizens in air protection efforts, with a particular focus on assisting socially vulnerable households. Key activities include strengthening mechanisms for controlling pollution emissions, developing and testing digital registries of individual heating systems, training municipal staff, and empowering organizations to implement similar solutions in other communities.
A standout feature of the project is the Climathon in Valjevo, event which serves as a central platform for presenting project activities, results, and innovative technological solutions in air quality improvement. Combined with carefully designed campaigns, this event raises awareness about the importance of digital tools and multi-sector collaboration in improving the environment in local communities.
Network/Organization Name: EKOMAR
Project Name: Thirsty – Inclusive Practices for Sustainable Water Supply in Times of Climate Change
Project Partners: Organization for Political Ecology – Polekol, Eco Hero Association
Project Duration: May – November 2025
The project “Thirsty” is implemented in municipalities across Central and Western Serbia, including Kragujevac, Knić, Tutin, Sjenica, and Raška, aiming to improve water resource management through strengthening the role of civil society, engaging citizens, and promoting gender equality in decision-making related to water supply.
Through a variety of activities, from educational seminars, public campaigns, and dialogues with decision-makers, to the collection and analysis of data on the impacts of climate change and human activities on water supply, the project empowers women activists and local communities to actively participate in shaping water protection policies. A special focus is placed on women from rural areas, who are particularly affected by water access challenges, as well as on improving local policies and infrastructure in communities facing water restrictions.
By presenting results and sharing best practices, the project aims to provide sustainable solutions for better water management, foster inclusive decision-making, and enhance community resilience in the face of climate change.
Network/Organization Name: Green List of Serbia
Project Name: Oplaneti se: Let’s Reduce Waste
Project Partners: /
Project Duration: June – November 2025
The project “Oplaneti se: Let’s Reduce Waste” is implemented in the Raška, Bor, and Rasina districts, aiming to contribute to environmental protection reforms in Serbia, particularly in the field of local waste management, in line with European standards. The project empowers civil society organizations and engages citizens in shaping local policies that help reduce waste and better protect nature.
Through the analysis of existing local policies, monitoring the implementation of measures, and open dialogue with decision-makers, the project improves concrete waste management practices in cities and municipalities. At the same time, it organizes educational activities for teachers, students, and citizens, as well as campaigns raising awareness about the importance of recycling, reducing food waste, and protecting natural assets. A special focus is placed on youth and local communities, who, through workshops, training, and public initiatives, gain knowledge and skills for active participation in environmental issues.
The project strengthens the capacities and visibility of the Green List of Serbia and its member organizations, which operate in areas facing significant environmental challenges. Through collaborative work and experience exchange, it initiates concrete changes, from supplementing local waste management plans to designing long-term educational programs and creating new instruments for citizen engagement.
“Oplaneti se” promotes responsible waste behavior and supports local initiatives that lead to a more sustainable future, aiming to make environmental protection a priority for everyone, from citizens to institutions.