Biodiversity and ecosystems restoration
The Western Balkans is one of Europe’s richest biodiversity regions, with unique rivers, forests, wetlands, and endemic species. These ecosystems provide water, food, and climate protection, but are increasingly threatened by habitat loss, development, pollution, and climate change. Healthy ecosystems are not only vital for nature conservation, but also form the foundation for human well-being, sustainable local economies, food security, and long-term regional stability. The Green Agenda for the Western Balkans sets a shared regional goal to halt biodiversity loss and restore ecosystems by 2030 and beyond, in line with the EU Biodiversity Strategy and global conservation targets.
New Environmental Transition Balkan (NET Balkan) supports this transition by working at the regional level to turn these commitments into action.
We contribute through:
- Ecosystem restoration and rewilding – restoring rivers, forests, wetlands and grasslands to their natural state.
- Biodiversity monitoring and mapping – collecting and analyzing data to guide evidence-based conservation.
- Green infrastructure and ecological connectivity – connecting habitats across landscapes and borders for thriving ecosystems.
- Nature-based solutions for climate resilience – using healthy ecosystems to reduce climate risks and support communities.
- Science-based conservation planning – designing effective strategies for long-term protection of species and habitats.
- Bridging gaps – connecting decision-makers, research institutions, stakeholders, and local communities both nationally and regionally.
By combining ecological science and expertise, spatial data, and cross-border cooperation, NET Balkan protects the Western Balkan’s natural heritage and fosters a resilient, nature-positive future.
Circular economy
The Western Balkans is at the start of its circular economy journey. Current waste management systems remain largely linear-focused on collection and disposal-while awareness of circular practices among businesses and citizens is still limited. At the same time, the transition to a circular economy represents a major opportunity for job creation, strengthening local value chains, and increasing the competitiveness of the regional economy.
NET Balkan supports this transition by:
- Promoting sustainable production and consumption, keeping materials in use longer.
- Supporting waste reduction, recycling, and proper treatment of materials like batteries, textiles, and electronics.
- Applying circular business models and encouraging green public procurement.
- Providing data, research, and guidance to help businesses, authorities, and communities adopt circular practices.
- Coordinating regional initiatives, including awareness campaigns and cross-border cooperation on plastics, marine litter, and other shared environmental challenges.
Through these actions, NET Balkan helps the Western Balkans turn circular economy strategies into real impact, reducing waste, conserving resources, and building a sustainable, climate-resilient future.
Climate action
The Western Balkans is highly exposed to climate change, from rising temperatures to extreme weather events. Building climate resilience requires urgent action, coordinated strategies, and regional cooperation to protect communities, ecosystems, and economies.
NET Balkan supports climate action by:
- Promoting climate adaptation and resilience through nature-based solutions and sustainable land-use practices.
- Providing data, research, and guidance to governments, businesses, and communities for evidence-based climate planning.
- Developing and maintaining the ClimaProof platform, helping authorities assess climate risks, track adaptation measures, and plan effective actions.
- Coordinating regional initiatives, awareness campaigns, and cross-border cooperation to strengthen climate resilience.
- Facilitating capacity building and knowledge exchange to implement EU-aligned climate policies and long-term adaptation strategies.
- Supporting local communities and vulnerable groups in planning and implementing climate adaptation measures
Through these actions, NET Balkan helps the Western Balkans adapt to climate change, strengthen resilience, and create a sustainable, climate-ready future for people and ecosystems.
Spatial data and analysis
Accurate spatial data is essential for understanding environmental changes, planning sustainable development, and supporting decision-making. The Western Balkans still faces challenges in monitoring ecosystems, land use, and natural resources due to limited data integration, accessibility, and analytical capacity.
NET Balkan supports spatial observation and GIS by:
- Collecting, analyzing, and visualizing environmental and socio-economic data using GIS, remote sensing, and drone technology.
- Developing interactive maps, dashboards, and spatial models to inform policy, planning, and research.
- Supporting monitoring of land use, forests, water resources, biodiversity, and climate impacts.
- Providing guidance, training, and capacity building for authorities, communities, and organizations to use spatial data effectively.
- Facilitating regional cooperation and knowledge exchange through shared spatial datasets and tools.
Through these actions, NET Balkan helps the Western Balkans turn data into actionable insights, improving environmental planning, management, and resilience.
Education and capacity building
Empowering people with knowledge and skills is key to creating lasting environmental impact. The Western Balkans faces gaps in awareness, technical expertise, and access to best practices for sustainable development and climate action.
NET Balkan supports education and capacity building by:
- Delivering workshops, training, and technical guidance for communities, authorities, and businesses.
- Developing educational materials and online resources on environmental management, circular economy, climate resilience, and spatial data analysis.
- Building local and regional capacities to implement EU-aligned environmental policies and sustainable practices.
- Promoting knowledge sharing, collaboration, and mentorship to foster long-term expertise in environmental management.
- Engaging youth and civil society to raise awareness and cultivate the next generation of environmental leaders.
Education and capacity building form the foundation of all NET Balkan focus areas, ensuring long-term, self-sustaining impact across the region.