THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA AIR – PROTECTION PROGRAM for the period from 2022 to 2030

In the recent years one of the main topics in the field of environment protection, both globally and in the Republic of Serbia, was air pollution. Every year in the Republic of Serbia with the beginning of the heating season, the level of pollution becomes worrying.

Therefore, the Government of the Republic of Serbia adopted the Air Protection Program for the period from 2022 to 2030 with an action plan (hereinafter: “Program”), which defined measures and activities for improving air quality. The Program was preceded by the Draft Air Protection Program, which was prepared in cooperation with the EU as part of the IPA 2014 project for a better environment in Serbia. The Alliance for Health and Environment stated that this is the first strategic document in the Western Balkans region in which the effects of air pollution on health are recognized throughout the text of the document.

Furthermore, regarding the document itself, the implementation of the Program will require investments in the amount of 2.6 billion euros, in the coming years. The objective is to reduce emissions in sectors such as – energy, stationary combustion plants, transport, large industrial plants and agriculture, through connection, cooperation and participation of institutions, business and citizens. Moreover, the Program defines measures and activities that will help local self-government units in the further development of air quality plans, short-term action plans and local monitoring programs.

In addition, faster replacement of old heating devices in households as well as faster replacements of vehicles, i.e. shipping of the oldest Euro 1,2 and 3 diesel passenger cars, light trucks and buses to recycling centers are foreseen.

Aside from investments, activities related to education, adopting best practices and raising awareness on the importance of reducing air pollution and environmental protection itself will be vital.