As part of a study visit organized by Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe, young delegates from the Western Balkans explored the work of the EU4Green project at the Environment Agency Austria in Vienna. The visit offered participants a unique opportunity to learn about the project’s role in supporting the region’s green transition, its alignment with the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, and the contributions of the Environment Agency Austria in the region.

The group composed of climate activists, and environmental professionals, delved into pressing environmental challenges in their region and shared innovative ideas on how to tackle them.

Engaging with EU4Green: Key Topics Discussed

Hosted by the Austrian Environment Agency, the session introduced participants to several core themes of EU4Green’s work:

1. • Depollution Water: Efforts to improve water quality and reduce pollution.
   • Circular Economy: Promoting resource efficiency and waste reduction.
   • Green Education: Building local capacity through tailored training programs.

Through interactive discussions, presentations, and guided Q&A sessions, the youth delegates gained valuable insights into regional priorities and how EU4Green supports implementation of environmental policies and activities.

The visit sparked thoughtful conversations about the region’s biggest environmental challenges and the role of youth in addressing them. Identifying what they could control and influence through joint discussion and reflection, the participants were empowered to turn their concerns into actionable steps.

The study visit was not just an educational experience, but a call to action for young leaders to reflect on gaps towards the region’s green transformation.

Eleonora Jovanovikj from North Macedonia is a mechanical engineer specializing in renewable energy and an alumna of GIZ’s Young Professionals program. She emphasized the dire air pollution in cities like Skopje and Bitola, linking it to outdated heating systems and industrial emissions: “Coal-based energy production is one of the largest polluters in our country. The heavy reliance on fossil fuels for heating and energy, combined with industrial emissions, has devastating effects on our health and environment. Addressing these issues is crucial for creating healthier and more sustainable communities.”

Maja Nikolikj, also from North Macedonia, holds a degree in power engineering and has recently transitioned from IT to a career focused on climate change and environmental protection. She spoke about the critical role of data and research in shaping effective climate policies:
“Evidence-based approaches are key to creating sustainable solutions that truly address climate challenges. What inspires me most is the potential for collective action—when individuals and communities come together, we can create real, lasting change.”

Ilija Franeta from Montenegro is a consultant at the World Bank with extensive experience in renewable energy projects across Africa, MENA, and Southeast Europe. He highlighted the challenges posed by the region’s reliance on fossil fuels: “Our dependence on fossil fuels, like coal and natural gas, continues to harm our environment and delay the transition to cleaner energy solutions. Governments and corporations must prioritize decarbonization, but youth-led initiatives also play a vital role in advocating for a sustainable future. It’s not just about energy security—it’s about ensuring the health and prosperity of our people.”

Delegates also reflected on the importance of grassroots activism, sense of agency, and the power of education in driving meaningful change in their communities.