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Good Practices for Tackling Climate Change Highlighted in the Danube Region

At a recent international working meeting held in Kosice, Slovakia, on October 23-24, 2024, stakeholders from across the Danube Region came together to share innovative practices for mitigating climate change. The event was part of the HARMONMISSIONS project, an initiative under the EU’s Interreg Danube program (2021–2027) focused on building capacity for climate action and fostering collaboration among countries in the region.

The meeting showcased successful projects from Bulgaria, Slovakia, Slovenia, Romania, Montenegro, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Ukraine, addressing two critical EU Missions: Adaptation to Climate Change and 100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities by 2030. These examples will serve as a foundation for developing a common strategy to enhance the Danube Region’s participation in EU Missions.

Spotlight on Bulgaria’s Good Practices

1. National Strategy for the Development of the Forest Sector until 2030

Bulgaria is tackling critical challenges like illegal logging, deforestation, and energy poverty through its National Strategy for the Development of the Forest Sector until 2030.

This forward-thinking strategy establishes a roadmap for sustainable forest management while balancing ecological preservation with economic and social benefits. It addresses pressing issues such as biodiversity conservation and environmental degradation, making forests a key player in Bulgaria’s green economy and climate change mitigation efforts.

2. Low-Emission Zones in Sofia Municipality

In December 2024, Sofia Municipality took a significant step in addressing urban air pollution by expanding its low-emission zones (LEZs) initiative, first introduced in 2022.

By restricting access for vehicles that do not meet specific environmental standards, the LEZs have reduced the number of vehicles in central Sofia by 140,000. This initiative is improving air quality, particularly during winter when pollution peaks, while also contributing to healthier urban living and advancing Bulgaria’s climate goals.

Collaborating for a Climate-Resilient Future

The analysis of these practices, along with others, shared during the meeting, will inform the development of a unified strategy to bolster climate action across the Danube Region. By learning from each other and working together, the countries of the Danube Region are making significant strides toward a sustainable, climate-resilient future.

Stay tuned for updates on how these practices will shape regional climate policies and projects.

For more details about HARMONMISSIONS, visit: https://interreg-danube.eu/search/results?searchTerm=HARMONMISSIONS

HARMONMISSION will be implemented in the period January 2024 – June 2026.

The project is supported by the Interreg Danube Region Program, co-funded by the European Union. More information is available at:

https://interreg-danube.eu/storage/media/01HWWBJQ0Y7JTNNSBGVZWESWYV.pdf

More information on the Interreg Danube program 2021-2027 is available at:

https://interreg-danube.eu/

For further information on the HARMONMISSIONS Project: office@arcfund.net