Federation of BiH launches five-year strategic Green Transition programme

The Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina has launched a five-year strategic programme called Green Transition, aiming to establish a systemic approach and strengthen cooperation in conducting a green transition that would be aligned with the European Union’s Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.

Minister of Energy, Mining, and Industry of the Federation of BiH Vedran Lakić and Resident Representative ad Interim of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in BiH Sylvain Merlen signed a financial agreement for the strategic Green Transition programme.

The deal is worth BAM 3.6 million (EUR 1.84 million). The ministry and UNDP participate with equal contributions.

The funds will be used for the development of sector strategies and documents, capacity building, and awareness raising, the ministry said. FBiH is one of two entities making up Bosnia and Herzegovina, the other one being the Republic of Srpska.

The agreement envisages technical support for firms to prepare for CBAM

The agreement envisages a business transformation support scheme for at least 100 companies – of which the ones led by women would have priority – in the sectors of metal, wood, textile, construction and plastics. The incentives are intended for circularity practices and the preparation for green financial support.

In addition, the beneficiaries will receive tailored technical support to prepare to comply with EU requirements for the introduction of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), according to the ministry.

It also said the programme encompasses a long-term vision for a just transition to an economy and society with net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The process includes a series of interrelated interventions and projects in four key areas: decarbonization and resilience to climate change, circular economy, reducing air pollution, and preserving the environment and biological diversity.

Lakić: Decarbonization and the energy transition are strategic priorities

Minister Vedran Lakić said decarbonization and the energy transition are strategic priorities of the ministry and the Government of the Federation of BiH, including the reform of the regulatory framework and the development of a long-term energy strategy, for the period 2024-2035.

The ministry is focused on ensuring that the transition to renewable energy sources offers equal opportunities for everyone, enabling vulnerable groups of the population and local communities that will be most affected by the transition to receive necessary support, Lakić stressed.

There is no time to waste

The ministry and the government have recognized the importance of an urgent adoption of strategic documents that will support the green transition of the BiH Federation, aware that there is no time to waste, the statement adds.

Sylvain Merlen from the UNDP said its goal is to accelerate the green transition in BiH with a systemic approach, partnerships and knowledge. Turning climate and environmental challenges into opportunities will make the transition just and inclusive for all, he pointed out.

The program lasts until May 2028.