As part of the IUS SDG Week themed "Think Globally, Act Locally," a lecture took place at the International University of Sarajevo (IUS) on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. Ms. Adrijana Marić, Manager of the Green Recovery component within the COVID-19 Investment Response project at the German Development Agency (GIZ), delivered the lecture. She discussed the current trends in the green transition of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing the importance of aligning with the European Green Deal and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans. Bosnia and Herzegovina has committed to achieving climate neutrality by 2050 and embracing a green economy.
The lecture specifically focused on the transition from a linear to a circular economy, promoting a sustainable future. During the ensuing discussion, participants observed a lack of public awareness regarding the necessity of a green economy in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The discussion highlighted the imperative to adapt to EU and global business trends for expedited EU accession. Key points underscored the creation of new competencies, bolstering competitiveness, optimizing internal resources, waste reduction, environmental preservation, and the generation of employment opportunities. Ongoing education in circular economy principles was deemed essential.
The University expressed pride in its role of fostering awareness through such lectures, preparing the younger generation for forthcoming challenges. Additionally, a web portal named "Green Economy" emerged as part of the GIZ project, in collaboration with the Foreign Trade Chamber of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This portal aims to disseminate information on sustainable practices and initiatives related to the green transition of Europe and Bosnia and Herzegovina's economy.
