1. We are entering a critical and unpredictable phase of the global climate crisis. This year alone, Kosovo has recorded the hottest summer ever, with an increase in droughts and lack of drinking water supply. We are committed to policies that ensure a just transition to a sustainable future.
2. Our comprehensive energy strategy underlines our aim to become carbon neutral by 2050. This commitment is supported by our new laws on Climate Change and Renewable Energy Sources, which provide the basis for a policy long term climate. Last year, we launched a 950 MW renewable investment package, including competitive projects for energy generation and storage capacity. Future projects, such as the 150MW wind farm and the 100MW solar farm, underline our efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce emissions.
3. Although we have the world’s fifth largest lignite reserves, we have set a clear target to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 36% by 2030 and to keep reserves underground. We remain committed to the green transition, even though we are not a party to the Paris Agreement. Climate change is already affecting us too and the need for support is urgent. According to the World Bank, our climate resilience efforts require investments worth 2.8 billion euros, mainly for adaptation infrastructure to alleviate risks such as floods, droughts and water shortages. Last year alone, climate-related damages amounted to 28.9 million euros, affecting 21,500 people.
4. Despite our efforts, we continue to be excluded from key and multilateral mechanisms for climate finance. We remain committed to our goals to mitigate risks, but we need access to global climate finance to support our transition.
5. Substantial investments are necessary for the energy transition, waste management and transport decarbonisation, which will require approximately 6 billion euros.
6. Digitization enables the green transition and we are the country with the fastest digitization in our region. Over 70% of companies in the technology sector export their services and we have 100% access to the broadband network.
7. 25 years after NATO’s intervention, Serbia’s airspace remains closed for commercial flights to or from Kosovo. This does not serve positively either for neighborly relations or for climate adaptation.
Our commitment to sustainable growth and climate resilience is clear. However, access to climate finance is crucial to achieving these ambitious goals. The Green Agenda for the Western Balkans should help us move towards a just transition.
Last modified: October 15, 2024