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Slovenian E-Mobility Solutions Conquering the World

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Michael Fousert)
Photo: Courtesy of Andrej Pečjak

The Slovenian Metron Institute is one of Europe’s leaders in electric vehicle innovation, actively shaping the future of e-mobility. Their commitment to research and development has produced a range of advanced solutions for sustainable mobility and secured their place among key players in the global EV market.

Metron further strengthened its leading position in 2015 during the world’s largest EV rally, the Wave Trophy, when its electrified Mazda 5 Photographs: Metron broke a record by covering 824 kilometers on a single charge.

“One of our greatest achievements was converting the Mazda 5 into a fully electric vehicle. This car set two world records – in 2014 it traveled 745 kilometers without charging, on the route from Bled to Dubrovnik, and a year later it reached a range of 824 kilometers in Germany at an average speed of 72 km/h,” proudly states Andrej Pečjak, director of the Metron Institute.

In addition to developing innovative technologies for electric vehicles, Metron experts are also focused on energy-sustainable solutions. One of their most significant projects includes smart chargers and advanced Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems, which allow not only vehicle charging but also the return of surplus energy to the grid when needed. This concept marks an essential step toward more efficient renewable energy management and greater power system stability.

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One of the main challenges of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, is their instability. While energy storage systems are expensive, Metron offers an innovative solution – microgrid cells that can operate independently or as part of a wider power network.

Electric vehicles play a crucial role in this process, as they can serve as mobile energy storage units, optimizing consumption and reducing battery costs. Recreational electric vehicles, such as the Renault Twizy, golf carts, and scooters, which are primarily used in summer and could contribute to storage capacity in winter without additional investment, have exceptional potential.

Currently, Metron is working on a revolutionary product – a smart portable charger that looks like a regular charging cable but enables intelligent energy management and optimized charging. This innovation opens the door to even more efficient and practical use of electric vehicles.

Prepared by Milena Maglovski

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY

Global Wind Day 2025 – The Contribution of Wind to the Economy and Communities

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

How much has been achieved so far, how much potential is yet to be unlocked, what role can wind play in transforming the energy system, and what is its contribution to the energy transition, economic growth, and job creation – these are the topics being discussed around the world today, on Global Wind Day, June 15.

Initiated by the European Wind Energy Association (EWEA), now known as WindEurope, Global Wind Day was first celebrated in 2007. After the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) joined the initiative, the event became global in 2009.

This year, in addition to the importance of wind energy itself, the focus is also on the people who make up the wind industry. In Europe, this industry currently employs 370,000 people, and if the European Union meets its targets for capacity expansion, that number could grow to 600,000 by 2030.

According to data published on the official Global Wind Day website, the installation of each new turbine contributes an average of 16 million euros to the European economy.

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Although it began as an onshore energy source, the wind industry is increasingly expanding offshore. All previous efforts led to the milestone of 1 terawatt (TW) being reached in 2023, while an additional 127 gigawatts (GW) were added in 2024 alone – making it the most successful year to date in terms of new wind power installations.

Currently, wind accounts for 20percent of Europe’s electricity consumption. The targets for the coming years include an increase to 35percent by 2030 and more than 50 percent by 2050.

While wind energy has made significant progress, the goals set for the future remain highly ambitious. Achieving them will require coordinated support and collaboration among various stakeholders – from policymakers and industry to educational institutions and local communities. One of the key challenges will be training 200,000 new professionals who will contribute their knowledge and skills to the continued growth of this sector.

Global Wind Day is an opportunity not only to reflect on past achievements but also to open a dialogue on the steps needed to ensure that wind energy continues to develop toward a sustainable and just energy future.

Energy portal

Futuristic Beehive– Urban Beekeeping From Your Home

Photo: Futuristic beehive

As silent guardians of life on Earth, bees maintain the balance of the ecosystem through their continuous work, pollinating plants that feed both humans and animals. Their habitats are particularly endangered in urban environments, and it is entirely wrong to think that cities are not their place. Although these areas are filled with concrete, leaving space for these small but invaluable creatures is essential. In today’s world, establishing harmony between people, bees, and nature presents a real challenge, but also an opportunity.

Photo: Futuristic beehive

Belgrade is an example of a very urban area that might not seem like a place where bees could find a home. Nevertheless, it is precisely in this city that the startup Futuristic Beehive was founded, developing an innovative idea – remarkable hives adapted for homes, allowing bees to move freely outdoors, thus connecting urban life with nature. This startup, born out of a passion for beekeeping and technology, brought together a team of experts who believe in transforming beekeeping and introducing new solutions to a traditional field, enabling bees to survive in cities. Mina Marjanović, a team member responsible for marketing, brand development, and customer relations, discussed the project’s vision in more detail.

“Today, with a team that believes in this idea and with growing interest from users, we believe we are on the right path towards transforming beekeeping and opening the doors to a new generation of beekeepers, who will use technology as a tool to advance this craft,” said our interviewee.

The Futuristic Beehive also enables observation of all processes within the bee colony and the safe collection of bee products (pollen, propolis, and honey) without the need for additional equipment. All elements are integrated into the product body except for an external inhalator intended for apitherapy. The core idea is to enable all users, not just beekeepers, to access fresh bee products and the complete process of API inhalation, making it available to people to boost their immune systems, reduce inflammation, and improve respiratory health. In this system, people are not passive observers but active participants. Through crucial but straightforward activities such as feeding and prevention, people directly contribute to the conservation of bees.The hive is mounted on a wall like an air conditioner, allowing bees to move freely towards nature.

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“It was created with the intention of offering a true experience, where users not only watch bees go out and return to the hive but also intuitively feel how their daily lives are aligned with natural rhythms, encouraging them to feel like active participants in nature conservation, while at the same time bringing health and well-being into their homes,” Marjanović highlights.

The orange design with a golden frame was conceived to represent a blend of functionality and visual appeal. As Mina explained, the orange and golden shades evoke solar energy, warmth, and a sense of luxury. Such an elegant and modern appearance brings innovation into everyday spaces, transforming them into a true oasis of peace and offering access to a personal mini-pharmacy. Traditional methods of beekeeping rely on manual collection of bee products, physical inspection of hives, and manual analysis of the bee colonies’ condition, which are more demanding. In contrast, the Futuristic Beehive offers numerous advantages, making beekeeping more efficient and safer.

This hive is specially designed for raising nuclei—small bee colonies, which are more protected and allow easier colony development Urban beekeeping creates a sustainable synergy between people and nature. We care for the bees by providing them with a safe habitat, and they, in return, care for us through pollination and the production of honey, wax, and other bee products that offer numerous benefits for humans.

Prepared by: Katarina Vuinac

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY

Solar Panels and Heat Pumps Becoming Standard in New Homes in England

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

The United Kingdom has announced a rooftop solar revolution, as the government revealed that from this autumn, new residential buildings will be required to have solar panels installed.

Ministers stated they will publish the Future Homes Standard, and have so far confirmed that solar panels will be included in the standard—meaning the vast majority of new homes will come equipped with solar systems.

Solar panels will not be mandatory in specific situations where installation is impractical, such as when shaded by trees or other obstructions.

This measure could save households hundreds of pounds. According to current energy price caps, an average UK household could save around £530 per year thanks to rooftop solar installations.

The estimated savings are based on the government’s Home Energy Assessment Tool, which provides users with an indicative figure of how much they can save on their energy bills depending on the characteristics of their home. A more detailed analysis of potential savings will be published in the final impact assessment this autumn.

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This policy is expected to significantly reduce energy costs for residents of new homes, ease the cost of living for young families and first-time homebuyers.

Recently, a new law came into effect allowing homeowners to install a heat pump within one meter of their property boundary without needing to apply for planning permission.

According to the proposed changes, new homes will feature low-carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps, and high levels of energy efficiency, further lowering bills and boosting the nation’s energy security through clean, domestic energy.

“From cooking to doing laundry, families will be able to enjoy the benefits of using clean, renewable energy from day one in their new home—with lower energy bills and more money in their pocket,” the UK government stated in its press release.

Enegry portal 

FAO: Global Fish Stocks Are Recovering, but Overfishing Remains a Concern

Photo-ilustration: Unsplash (Kate Estes)

The latest report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), “The State of World Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – 2025”, offers the most comprehensive insight to date into the state of global marine fisheries, covering 2,570 individual fish stocks.

According to the report, 64.5 percent of global fish stocks are being exploited within biologically sustainable limits, while 35.5 percent are overfished. When results are weighted by catch volume, a significant 77.2 percent of total production comes from sustainable sources.

More than 650 experts from over 200 institutions across 90 countries contributed to the development of this report. Particular attention is drawn to regions like the northeast Pacific, where 92.7 percent of stocks are harvested sustainably, and the southwest Pacific, with 85 percent sustainable stocks. In Antarctica, for the first time since its inclusion in the report, 100 percent of assessed stocks have been rated as sustainable, thanks to an ecosystem-based approach and strong international cooperation.

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On the other hand, worrisome trends have been observed in regions such as the southeast Pacific (46 percent sustainable stocks) and the eastern-central Atlantic (47.4 percent). In these areas, challenges are heightened due to weak institutional support, fragmented management, and a lack of reliable data.

Among the ten most commonly caught fish species—including tuna—a remarkable 85.8 percent of the total catch comes from sustainable stocks. Tuna stands out as a success story: 87 percent of tuna stocks are sustainable, and 99 percent of the catch originates from these sources, thanks to science-based policies and efficient monitoring systems.

However, deep-sea species are under serious pressure, with only 29 percent of stocks rated as sustainable, and there is growing concern over migratory sharks, often caught as bycatch in tuna fisheries.

The FAO emphasizes the need for additional investment in data collection systems and the strengthening of management capacities, particularly in small-scale and artisanal fisheries, where data gaps remain significant.

“Effective fisheries management remains the most powerful tool for preserving resources. This report demonstrates how well-managed systems deliver tangible results,” said FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu.

Energy portal

How Skewers Sparked a Circular Revolution in Jakarta

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Daniel Honies)

Local problems often call for local, simple solutions – and one such idea was born in the heart of Jakarta. In this vibrant metropolis, where the streets are filled with the aroma of traditional dishes, a concept emerged that not only addresses waste but also sparks a new sustainability-driven economy.

The first step taken by the creative startup Boolet and the company Dentsu Indonesia was to ask a crucial question: “What do we have in abundance, and throw away every day?”

The answer was obvious – wooden skewers and chopsticks.

Every day on the streets of Jakarta, tons of used skewers are carelessly discarded after the consumption of popular dishes. These small, seemingly worthless items pile up in landfills, pollute the environment, and pose risks to sanitation workers. Indonesia produces as much as 15,000 tons of these single-use sticks annually, while awareness about their recycling remains low.

That’s why Dentsu Indonesia launched the “Re-Skewer” campaign – an innovative project that transforms this waste into charcoal briquettes, intended for the very people who generate it daily — street food vendors. Through a smart combination of education, incentives, and recycling, the project not only reduces waste but restores its value to the community.

But the idea doesn’t stop with briquettes. Since its founding, Boolet has pursued a vision of turning used sticks into everyday products — elegant eyeglass frames, phone holders, coasters, and other wooden items. While these products were initially made possible only through donations from individuals and companies, Boolet is now actively aligning its mission with the real needs of small entrepreneurs — the same community that is both the source of the problem and the key to the solution.

 

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Thanks to research, development, and collaboration with local laboratories, Boolet also developed sustainable briquette packaging made from recycled skewers — practical, recyclable, and tailored to the needs of street vendors.

This initiative from Jakarta shows how a simple idea, rooted in local reality, can trigger a wave of change. When creativity merges with social responsibility, even the things we throw away daily can become fuel for a better, more sustainable future.

The campaign is already delivering tangible results. In just one day, enough waste was collected to produce 45 kilograms of charcoal briquettes. This success not only reduced landfill waste but also cut costs for vendors, introduced them to the world of the circular economy, and demonstrated how powerful a well-designed local initiative can be.

“Skewer by skewer — that’s how we change the world. Creativity born from empathy and an understanding of local culture has the power to create real, tangible impact,” said Ranga Imanuel, Executive Creative Director at Dentsu Indonesia.

The campaign has already won a Bronze award at the prestigious Citra Pariwara 2024 competition, in the Best User Experience and Event category. And this is just the beginning. Boolet is already planning to expand into other cities, opening doors to new communities, vendors, and artisans – people who create every day, yet unknowingly discard what could become part of the solution.

So maybe it’s time we ask ourselves: What do we have in abundance, yet fail to notice?

What resource in our own community is waiting to be recognized, repurposed, revalued?

Just like in Jakarta — where ordinary discarded sticks became a spark for change — our own towns and villages surely hold hidden potential, forgotten materials, ideas just waiting for someone to look at them differently.

Because often, the greatest changes begin with the smallest things.

Milena Maglovski

Construction Begins on the Third Section of the Trans-Balkan Power Corridor

Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay (NickyPe)

Construction work on the third section of the Trans-Balkan Electricity Transmission Corridor, stretching from Obrenovac to Bajina Bašta in Serbia with a total length of 109 kilometers, has officially commenced.

According to Dubravka Đedović Handanović, Minister of Mining and Energy, around 100 million euros will be invested in this project, which will increase the reliability of electricity supply in western Serbia and strengthen interconnections with neighboring countries.

“With the construction of the Trans-Balkan Corridor, we have already connected with Romania, and upon completion of the entire project, we will further strengthen our connection with Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro, and eventually with Italy,” the minister stated, adding that this corridor is also important for connecting the future Bistrica pumped-storage hydropower plant.

She also noted that over the next five years, Serbia faces significant investments in the transmission network, including the construction of the Pannonian Corridor toward Hungary.

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Jelena Matejić, General Director of EMS AD, said that the total value of constructing the entire Trans-Balkan Corridor exceeds 200 million euros. This includes 323 kilometers of 400 kV transmission lines, the upgrading of two substations to higher voltage levels, and the expansion of transmission fields in three substations.

“In addition to this third section, we also have the fourth one ahead, for which funding has been secured, and it is expected to be completed by 2028,” Matejić stated.

Work on the third section includes the construction of a 109-kilometer transmission line with 309 towers, the installation of two new transmission fields at the Obrenovac substation, and the upgrading of the Bajina Bašta substation to a 400 kV voltage level. The total value of this section is approximately 100 million euros.

The project is financed by a KfW Bank loan of 64.5 million euros, a donation from the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) of about 21 million euros, and own funds from EMS AD. The construction of the Trans-Balkan Corridor is financially supported by the European Union and the German Government.

Energy portal

More Efficient Subsidies – The Path to Mass Transport Electrification

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Gerd Altmann)
Photo: coutresy of Filip Mitrović

The use of electric vehicles (EVs) provides a double benefit—it protects the environment by emitting no harmful gases and allows savings for vehicle owners. A paradigm shift in mobility through education, innovative solutions, and integrating the latest technologies is transforming how organizations and individuals perceive mobility. This is precisely the mission of the 360°Mobility consulting agency, a member of the National eMobility Cluster within the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia.

Serbia’s EV subsidy system has been recognized as a good practice on the path to decarbonizing transport, but there is room for improvement. The current subsidy model treats all electric vehicles equally, despite significant differences in their segments and price categories.

“Subsidized EV procurement should focus on mass mobility, that is, more affordable electric vehicles, instead of equally incentivizing the purchase of premium models. Introducing price brackets into the subsidy system—for example, for vehicles priced up to 50,000 euros and subsidies covering at least 10 percent of the gross value—could make the system more efficient,” says Filip Mitrović, founder of 360°Mobility.

The current 5,000 euros subsidy applies exclusively to fully electric vehicles (excluding hybrid variants), which is a good policy. Still, insufficient marketing coverage and lack of transparency in fund allocation remain issues.

Mitrović suggests that it would be beneficial to publicly disclose on a monthly basis how much subsidy funding remains available, to help potential buyers plan more effectively.

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Subsidizing specific categories, such as light delivery vehicles, taxis, and shared mobility services, would also significantly reduce harmful emissions in urban areas.

While the application process has been simplified compared to previous years, Mitrović believes that, in the era of digitalization, further improvements could be made by enabling online applications.

Eliminating import duties on electric vehicles would significantly reduce prices and accelerate the transition to e-mobility. The current import duty in Serbia is 5 percent, directly increasing the cost of EVs and making them less competitive than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Good examples include Montenegro, which has reduced EV import duties to just one percent regardless of the vehicle’s country of origin, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, which went a step further by entirely eliminating all customs duties on EVs through a regulation that is easier and faster to implement than a law— yet equally effective.

“In addition to subsidies and eliminating customs duties, Serbia could implement a progressive subsidy model—with higher incentives for vehicles with smaller batteries and lower prices, making EVs more accessible to a broader population. Additional tax incentives, such as lower registration fees, abolishing ecotaxes and other charges, would also be strong motivators.

Prepared by Jasna Dragojević

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY

Scientists Discover Leakage of Precious Metals from Earth’s Core

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

More than 99.999 percent of Earth’s reserves of gold and other precious metals are located beneath 3,000 kilometers of solid rock, locked within Earth’s metallic core — or so it was believed until now. Researchers from Germany have discovered this noble metal much closer than we could have imagined.

Scientists from the University of Göttingen have detected traces of the precious metal ruthenium (Ru) in volcanic rocks in Hawaii, which, according to their findings, must have originated from Earth’s core. Their study was published in the journal Nature.

The Earth’s metallic core contains slightly more of the ruthenium isotope (100Ru) than the rocky mantle because it originated from a different source. These differences were previously invisible, but new research methods have made their detection possible. The high level of 100Ru found in surface lava indicates that these rocks originate from the boundary between the core and the mantle.

Valuable reserves of gold and other precious metals — which are crucial for renewable energy technologies — could, at least in part, be sourced from Earth’s core.

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These ancient geological processes open a whole new perspective in understanding the planet’s internal dynamics.

“When the first results came in, we realized we had literally struck gold! Our data confirmed that material from the core — including gold and other precious metals — is seeping into the overlying mantle,” said Nils Mesling from the Department of Geochemistry and Isotope Geology at the University of Göttingen.

Professor Matthias Willbold added that their findings not only show that the core is not as isolated as previously believed, but also prove that massive amounts of extremely hot material — hundreds of billions of tons of rock — rise from the depths to the Earth’s surface, creating oceanic islands like Hawaii.

Energy portal

Volvo Trucks – The Market Leader in Electric Trucks in Europe and North America

Photo: Volvo Trucks
Volvo Trucks is the leader in the heavy-duty electric truck segment (16 tons and above) in Europe for the fifth consecutive year. At the end of 2024, the company held a market share of 47 percent, and during the year, 1,970 electric Volvo trucks were registered in Europe. The five largest markets for Volvo electric trucks in 2024 were Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Switzerland. Volvo Trucks also maintains a leading position in North America, with a market share of over 40 percent in the heavy-duty electric truck segment in 2024.

– We are proud to lead the transformation toward zero-emission transportation. We have an exceptionally broad range of electric trucks for regional, urban, and construction transport. Our next electric truck, which will soon hit the market, will be able to cover distances of up to 600 kilometers on a single charge, says Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks. – I want to thank all large and small transport companies who are pioneers and investing in electric trucks. I am proud that you have chosen Volvo as your partner on the path to zero-emission transportation. I also want to thank our dealers, suppliers, and colleagues within the Volvo Group.

Volvo Trucks, a company that began serial production of electric trucks in 2019, now has eight electric models in its lineup and has delivered more than 4,800 electric trucks to customers around the world so far.

– The presence of our electric trucks is growing rapidly. Our total fleet has surpassed more than 140 million kilometers in daily operations by customers worldwide. More and more electric trucks are being driven in new geographic areas, reducing emissions for our customers every day. It’s great to see that, adds Roger Alm.

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Electric Trucks Make Up Only 1.3 Percent of the Total Truck Market in Europe – Acceleration Needed

Photo: Volvo Trucks

In 2024, electric trucks constituted only 1.3 percent of the total truck market in Europe. Wider adoption of electric trucks relies on several factors, including the expansion of the public charging network, increased electricity grid capacity, a more favorable total cost of ownership for transport operators, public procurement of zero-emission transport services, and a sustainable supply chain.

– To accelerate the transition to zero-emission transport, it’s not enough to have electric trucks ready. According to our analyses, by 2030, we will need 40,000 fast chargers along European roads to support a total of 400,000 electric trucks. We also need more efficient economic policies to make the operation of electric trucks profitable for all transport companies, emphasizes Roger Alm. – We are in close dialogue with all stakeholders, because it is clear that much more needs to be done, and with a greater sense of urgency, to ensure an accelerated transformation.

Volvo Trucks

Complete EV Charger Offer With New Schneider Electric Models

Photo: Schneider Electric

Today, transportation accounts for 23 percent of global energy consumption, and buildings for 26 percent. Accelerating the transition to electricity and using renewable energy sources is essential to achieving net-zero emissions.

By combining efficient EV charging solutions with software for managing power distribution, owners and managers can achieve sustainability goals, ensure reliability, optimize energy efficiency, and deliver a seamless user experience for EV drivers.

Fast Charger Designed for Commercial and Industrial Buildings

The new EVlink Pro DC fast charger is designed for commercial or industrial buildings and vehicle fleets.

It provides quick, safe, and efficient charging, allowing you to reach 80 percent charge in just 20 minutes.

The charging station combines energy efficiency with cost minimization while seamlessly integrating with energy management systems like EcoStruxure EV Charging Expert, offering intelligent distribution of available energy and real-time monitoring.

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Key features of the new fast charging station:

  • Scalable power from 120 to 180 kW and future-ready technology for easy upgrades and modernization.
  • Reliability with independent certification, C4M corrosion protection, and operation in harsh conditions and extreme temperatures up to 50°C with no power degradation.
  • Enhanced built-in protection and emergency stop button for safer operation.
  • Sensors for vibration and water ingress, with real-time alerts in case of issues at the charging site.
  • Ease of use with vehicle identification that automatically starts charging when a registered vehicle is connected, enabling dynamic charging of two vehicles simultaneously for maximum energy efficiency.

Schneider Electric

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

Sustainable Mobility Rooted in Innovation

Photo: Bex

Foton, a global leader in commercial vehicles with an innovative approach to sustainable mobility, showcased its latest advancements at the Eco Forum in Herceg Novi and the Belgrade Car Show.

The Foton eBus won the prestigious Vehicle of the Show award, reaffirming the company’s dedication to innovation, sustainable transport, and brand recognition in the electric vehicle (EV) market.

During the exhibition, Foton attracted significant attention from visitors and industry professionals alike. The eBus demonstrated its advanced design, energy efficiency, and environmental advantages over traditional bus models. This recognition of quality is yet another indicator of the company’s global strategy to contribute to the development of sustainable mobility and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

“Visitors to Foton’s booth had the opportunity to explore advanced charging solutions developed in Photograph: Bex partnership with Bexenergy. These solutions include intelligent charging systems that enable fast and efficient battery replenishment, optimize energy consumption, and help reduce operational costs for EV owners,” Foton representatives stated.

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Their vision of sustainable transport is based on a combination of innovative technology, high performance, and reliability. For years, Foton has invested in research and development to make the electrification of commercial transport the norm rather than the exception. With a global presence in over 100 markets, Foton can develop vehicles tailored to diverse user needs while maintaining environmental considerations as a top priority.

At the Eco Forum in Herceg Novi, the company presented several models reflecting this approach – two eView Grand models, along with the Tunland V9, Tunland V7, Tunland G7, and eAumark models. These vehicles exemplify modern transport solutions that combine cost-effectiveness, durability, and environmental friendliness. Featuring improved battery systems, higher efficiency, and reduced maintenance costs compared to conventional vehicles, Foton’s models provide tangible benefits to companies seeking to modernize their fleets and lower their carbon footprint.

The event also served as an opportunity for dialogue with industry leaders, decision-makers, and partners shaping the future of sustainable transport, and participation in panel discussions.

Foton’s models, such as the eAumark, prove that electric trucks are no longer just a concept for the future, but a real-world solution for companies aiming to optimize their operations.

Foton’s presence at the Eco Forum in Herceg Novi is part of the company’s broader strategy to position itself as a leader in sustainable transport in the region. The Serbian and Montenegrin markets are particularly significant.

Foton

Read the story in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

Diving to Restore Coral Reefs – A Story of Hope from Zanzibar

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik, AI generation)

Summer has not officially begun yet, but many are already packing their bags for destinations where turquoise seas await. Summer tourism is no longer just about sunbathing, splashing in the shallows, and relaxing on the surface of the sea. Activities such as diving are becoming increasingly popular and accessible around the world. However, unless stricter measures are urgently taken to protect seas, oceans, and their marine life, tourists diving beneath the surface may soon be left without the breathtaking sights they expect today.

Due to intense tourism and increasingly evident climate change, coral reefs across the globe are under severe pressure and threat. Excessive numbers of visitors, unsustainable diving and fishing practices, pollution, and ocean warming are causing coral bleaching and death.

Coral reefs are among the richest and most important ecosystems on the planet. They are home to more than 4,000 species of fish, corals, and other marine organisms. Interestingly, although they cover only about one percent of the world’s ocean surface, they are home to at least 25 percent of all marine life. According to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), healthy coral reefs are vital to the nutrition of coastal communities and also generate billions of dollars in tourism and recreation. In addition, coral reefs are a crucial source of compounds used in developing medicines for various diseases, and their full medical potential has yet to be explored.

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik) – AI generation

One of the organizations dedicated to the protection and restoration of coral reefs is Africa Foundation, which, in collaboration with the company &Beyond, is implementing the “Oceans Without Borders” program. Launched in October last year, the project focuses on restoring coral reefs around Mnemba Island, located just off the coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania. The goal is to restore damaged coral reefs and increase their coverage by at least 10 percent by the year 2027.

A particularly valuable aspect of the project is the involvement of local communities, and the most inspiring story comes from Atuva Omar – the only woman in Zanzibar engaged in coral transplantation diving. In an interview with the BBC, Atuva shared her deep connection to the ocean, which is her home just three kilometers from Mnemba Island. She observed daily how climate change, overfishing, and mass tourism were destroying the coral reefs around her, so she decided to take an active role in their restoration.

As part of the project, she was trained in diving techniques and coral fragment transplantation onto artificial reefs, which serve as new habitats and help restore life to the marine ecosystem. The dedication and courage of this young woman have become a symbol of hope for preserving these precious natural treasures, reminding us how much individual action, belief in change, and responsibility toward nature can contribute to protecting our planet. Therefore, as we slowly pack our bags for the seaside, it’s important to be aware that every choice and action we take can have a significant impact on the future of our seas and coral reefs.

Katarina Vuinac

World Environment Day – United Against Plastic Pollution

Photo-illustration: Freepik (jcomp)

The most important international day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preserving our planet is World Environment Day, observed every year on June 5. This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972 and was first celebrated in 1973 under the slogan Only One Earth.

This year’s observance focuses on the fight against plastic pollution. Data shows that more than 400 million tons of plastic are produced annually, with 11 million tons ending up in rivers, lakes, and oceans.

A major concern is microplastics, which enter the bodies of humans and animals through water, food, and air. It is estimated that the average person consumes more than 50,000 plastic particles each year.

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That is why this year’s World Environment Day joins the #BeatPlasticPollution campaign, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The goal is to mobilize communities around the world to implement and advocate for solutions to this problem.

This day serves as a call to action for all governments, companies, and citizens to take concrete steps to reduce plastic use and to enhance recycling efforts and the implementation of a circular economy.

Energy portal

Farizon and the Future of Electric Commercial Vehicles

Photo: coutresy of Lazar Radinov
Photo: coutresy of Lazar Radinov

The development of electromobility in Serbia presents numerous challenges and great opportunities for transforming the transport sector. Lazar Radanov Radičev, Director of Delta Auto Group, speaks about the potential of electric commercial vehicles, the advantages of the Farizon model, and the readiness of companies to transition to sustainable transport solutions.

Q What are the key challenges and opportunities that Delta Auto Group sees in developing electromobility and sustainable transport solutions in Serbia and the region?

A The low market share of electric vehicles represents significant development potential, especially in the light commercial vehicle segment, where purchasing decisions are based on cost-efficiency, unlike passenger vehicles, where decisions often involve emotional factors. Analysis shows that electric vehicles have clear advantages in the last-mile delivery segment, where vehicles travel up to 150 km daily, follow predictable routes, and are parked at company premises, making battery charging easier. As a result, range and public charging infrastructure become less relevant topics. In the case of the Farizon V6E, driving 150 km per day, 22 working days a month, we estimated savings of 25,000 euros over five years compared to a diesel vehicle. These savings come from lower fuel and maintenance costs—there’s no engine oil or most filters, and brake pads can last up to three times longer.

Q Farizon is bringing a revolution to the segment of eco-friendly commercial vehicles. How do you assess its potential in the Serbian and regional markets?

A We see no rational obstacles to the transition of urban delivery fleets and last-mile operators to electric vehicles. In this respect, Farizon has enormous potential in Serbia and the region. With the development of charging infrastructure and the broader availability of fast chargers, we believe intercity transport will follow this trend. Since the brand’s promotion in November 2024, and especially after the Auto Show in March, we’ve seen growing interest from companies in such solutions. Of course, additional consultations and time are needed for customers to choose the vehicle variant that best suits their needs.

IN FOCUS:

Q What key innovations and technologies set Farizon vehicles apart from the competition?

A Thanks to advanced technologies, Farizon offers greater road safety, lower maintenance costs, and optimal space utilization. The vehicle omits the traditional B-pillar, allowing the interior to be flexibly configured to meet various needs, resulting in more cargo space and easier access. There are also advanced safety features such as ASR (anti-slip regulation), AEB (automatic emergency braking), and TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system), all contributing to safer driving. Farizon also employs a drive-by-wire system, which improves vehicle handling by 300 percent and reduces braking distance by 10 percent.

Q How ready are premium and luxury brands, such as Maserati, for a full transition to sustainable mobility?

A These brands are actually leading the transition to sustainable mobility. The first electric model in Serbia was the BMW i3, conceived as a complete sustainability showcase: it was built using recycled materials, the factory operated on 100 percent renewable energy, and production involved 50 percent less energy and 70 percent less water consumption. Luxury brands see an opportunity in electrification not only for reducing emissions, but also for enhancing performance. For example, the gasoline Maserati Trofeo offers 550 hp and 0–100 km/h acceleration in 3.5 seconds, while the electric Maserati GranTurismo Folgore delivers 761 hp, an incredible 1,350 Nm of torque, and acceleration in 2.5 seconds. This and similar models also use new eco-friendly and composite materials, making the vehicle more efficient.

Interview by Milena Maglovski

The inteview was published in the Energy portal Magazine SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY 

The Baltics to Gain up to 600 New EV Charging Stations by 2027

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Maxim Hopman)

Across the Baltic region, up to 600 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are planned to be built by the end of 2027. Given that this region currently lags behind the European Union average in terms of electromobility infrastructure, the project holds particular significance and will contribute to achieving the national energy and climate goals of the Baltic states.

A portion of the stations will be installed along the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) corridors, further supporting the decarbonization goals of the transport sector defined within the “Fit for 55” package and the European Green Deal.

The project is supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which approved a 60 million euros loan to the Ignitis Group – the leading energy company in the Baltic states.

More:

Matteo Patrone, EBRD’s Managing Director for Banking, stated that this investment represents a major step forward for green mobility in the region and addresses one of the main barriers to the wider adoption of electric vehicles – the lack of accessible and reliable infrastructure.

In 2024, the Ignitis Group tripled its charging network and aims to become the leading operator of fast EV chargers in the region.

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