Civic Engagement and Institutional Responsibility

As one of the biggest environmental issues confronting Kosovo, environmental pollution not only demands immediate attention, but also cooperation among all those involved in the development and implementation of suitable solutions.

Specifically, the issue of air, water and land pollution demands urgent action, the creating of policies that are as favourable as possible for investments in renewable energy and the development of the circular economy sector. In this aspect, it is the responsibility of institutions to develop and provide suitable conditions that encourage innovation and investment in green technologies.

There is nonetheless a clear commitment to environmental protection among the Kosovo population and civil society. One encouraging example is the 12-year “Let’s Cleanup Kosovo” campaign, which is organised by NGO Let’s Do It Kosovo and has mobilised hundreds of thousands of volunteers to participate in cleaning initiatives. Numerous other countries of the region have also seen this kind of activity, with thousands of volunteers engaging in environmental cleanup efforts. Unfortunately, institutions continue to lag behind in capitalising on the public participation generated by these efforts to address pollution issues in a more methodical and long-term manner.

Kosovo shows a strong commitment to environmental protection, with hundreds of thousands of citizens volunteering for cleanup initiatives

Beyond Let’s Do It Kosovo, there are many other environmental organisations and small local groups that are working tirelessly to protect the environment, promote sustainable practices and build a culture of sustainability. Their important work is not only worthy of acknowledgment, but also deserves long-term funding from the public and private sectors.

At the same time, it is essential to emphasise the need for continuous and systematic educational campaigns, especially when it comes to public and environmental education in schools. Early environmental education ensures that the next generation is better equipped to handle and confront future environmental concerns, in addition to fostering sustainable attitudes and habits.

Regional cooperation is another key component in tackling shared environmental challenges, with an emphasis on the need for the region’s civil society organisations and media outlets to cooperate more closely on joint environmental campaigns. This kind of interstate collaboration would make it easier to fight pollution together, share resources and knowledge, and respond more effectively to problems requiring joint solutions.

Regional initiatives like World Cleanup Day have shown that civic engagement can generate new and surprising energy for positive change. These kinds of initiatives are more than just cleanups: they are manifestations of a desire to improve living conditions and the state of the natural environment. However, there is still a gap between this civic desire and institutional action. It is time for institutions to bridge this gap by relying on the energy and passion generated by civil society campaigns.

In order to develop policies that are harmonised with the actual needs of the environment and society, it is essential for all environmental actors to have open and positive conversations with governments. Every action is vital in establishing the direction of sustainability in the area – from adopting laws that promote investment in renewables to assisting companies in using the circular economy to fund environmental education.

In summary, the dedication to a healthier and cleaner environment isn’t only an idealistic goal, but rather a duty to the next generation and an investment in the future stability of the public health system and the economy. Our children’s future is shaped by every step we take towards sustainability today. Together, as individuals, groups, governments, and the media, let’s create a Western Balkan region that not only endures, but flourishes in the 21st century.