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Wind and Solar Surpass Coal in U.S. Electricity Generation

Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

For the first time last year, the United States reached a milestone where solar and wind energy together generated more electricity than coal, according to the organization EMBER. Wind and solar accounted for 17 percent of total electricity production, while coal’s share dropped to an all-time low of just 15 percent.

Although the share of natural gas increased due to higher electricity demand, solar energy covered a significant portion of this rising demand.

Solar remained the fastest-growing source of electricity, with a 27 percent increase in generation in 2024, surpassing hydropower for the first time. Wind energy also grew by seven percent. Just six years ago, coal’s share was three times higher than the combined share of wind and solar energy.

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The rapid expansion of solar energy has been enabled by battery development. For instance, last year, California had over 30 percent of its energy mix coming from solar for the first time. This was made possible by installing 20 percent more battery capacity than solar capacity, allowing a substantial portion of the energy produced during the day to be stored for evening hours.

Despite a slight increase in fossil fuel generation and a 0.7 percent rise in CO2 emissions, the growth in energy demand was significantly higher than the increase in emissions. This resulted in the cleanest electricity per unit ever recorded.

However, the growth of solar energy has not been uniform across all states. As many as 28 states generated less than five percent of their electricity from solar sources last year, highlighting that the potential of this renewable energy source remains largely underutilized.

Energy portal

Today We Celebrate International Day of Rivers – Our Rivers, Our Future

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Ezra Jeffrey-Comeau)

The International Day of Rivers, observed annually on March 14, carries the theme this year: „Our Rivers, Our Future”

Rivers are vital natural resources – they provide water for drinking, agriculture, industry, and energy production while also serving as habitats for numerous plant and animal species, significantly contributing to biodiversity and ecological balance.

However, climate change, pollution, and unsustainable practices increasingly threaten their health, requiring urgent action at both global and local levels.

In Serbia, rivers face specific challenges. Pollution, primarily due to insufficient wastewater treatment infrastructure, poses a serious threat. The small number of treatment facilities results in large amounts of industrial and municipal wastewater being discharged into rivers, further degrading their natural ecosystems and endangering many plant and animal species.

For instance, according to data from the Statistical Office of the Republic of Serbia for 2022, as much as 81.5 percent of the total wastewater volume in the country remains untreated, significantly contributing to the degradation of aquatic ecosystems.

The International Day of Rivers reminds us of the importance of actively preserving rivers and calls for better management of these invaluable resources to ensure their sustainability and health for future generations.

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On this occasion, the Public Water Management Company „Srbijavode” issued a statement emphasizing its active participation in the protection and improvement of Serbia’s water resources.

„As a long-standing member of the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River and the International Sava River Basin Commission, JVP ‘Srbijavode’ actively works to improve international cooperation in water resource protection, flood prevention, and water quality. Through preventive flood protection measures, including the construction and maintenance of embankments, canals, and other water management infrastructure, we contribute to joint efforts to preserve and sustainably use water resources”, the statement from JVP „Srbijavode” reads.

In addition to the International Day of Rivers, World Rivers Day is celebrated every fourth Sunday in September as a tribute to the world’s waterways. This global event was initiated by internationally recognized river advocate Mark Angelo, building on the success of British Columbia’s Rivers Day, which he first launched in 1980.

Energy portal

Pokrovac: Battery Storage Can Reduce Electricity Prices by 25 Percent by 2030

Photo: OIEH

Croatia is a country firmly committed to the energy transition, and investments in the flexibility of the power system and the development of battery storage systems are key to its success. These were the conclusions of the Solar Flex Croatia 2025 conference, organized on March 12 in Zagreb by the Renewable Energy Sources of Croatia (OIEH) in cooperation with SolarPower Europe and the European Commission.

According to Maja Pokrovac, director of OIEH, the lack of energy storage capacity further increases dependence on electricity imports, which accounted for as much as a quarter of domestic consumption last summer. She added that increasing battery storage capacity could reduce electricity prices by 25 percent by 2030, provided that the regulatory framework is accelerated to enable faster development and integration of new capacities.

Photo: OIEH

“Sixty-one percent of the grid capacity is outdated, modernization takes a long time, and last summer, Croatia imported 25 percent of its electricity because it lacks quality storage capacity. Moreover, amendments to the Renewable Energy Sources and High-Efficiency Cogeneration Act, which are currently under public consultation, show a lack of understanding of renewable energy storage. However, increasing battery storage capacity could reduce electricity prices by 25 percent by 2030, and by 33 percent by 2040,” Pokrovac emphasized.

Valburga Hemetsberger, CEO of SolarPower Europe, stated that solar energy is currently the most affordable energy source in Europe, but further growth requires the development of flexible infrastructure and a significant increase in storage capacity. She stressed that investment in flexibility is crucial for maintaining Europe’s energy competitiveness and price stability, especially given the increasing electrification of industries and society.

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“In 2024, Europe installed a record 66 GW of new solar capacity, bringing the total to 330 GW. Solar power has been continuously growing in recent years, but we now face the challenges of infrastructure development and energy price stability. We need flexibility and a large number of battery storage systems for Europe to remain competitive,” Hemetsberger stated.

Zrinka Ujević, Head of the European Commission Representation in Croatia, highlighted European policies that encourage the rapid development of battery storage systems and emphasized that investments in this technology are crucial for achieving Europe’s climate neutrality by 2050.

“The European Commission has introduced numerous policies and measures to accelerate the development of battery storage systems. The Renewable Energy Directive, for example, provides an incentive framework for the development and competitive market of all types of technologies. Furthermore, the European Green Deal, which commits Europe to becoming a climate-neutral continent by 2050, and the Clean Industry Plan are also significant steps. A lot is being done to achieve our climate goals, but the challenge remains adapting infrastructure to efficiently integrate renewable energy sources. These solutions are essential for economic growth, new jobs, and the well-being of citizens. Additionally, it is important that the public and private sectors collaborate as much as possible, as this is key to financing and knowledge exchange. Smart households provide an opportunity to participate in energy production, and batteries are essential for balancing the grid,” Ujević said.

Conference participants agreed that Croatia has the potential to become a regional leader in integrating renewable energy sources and battery storage, but this requires rapid modernization of the transmission and distribution network, as well as adaptations in legislation.

Energy portal

Should We Bring Back Public Bathhouses for Sustainability?

Foto: OpenAI

For most of us, a day without bathing is simply unimaginable – especially in summer when we refresh ourselves several times a day. Now, imagine suddenly losing that luxury in our own homes and having to maintain hygiene in some kind of public bathhouses instead.

I must admit that the very thought sends shivers down my spine. I think I would constantly feel uncomfortable due to the lack of privacy, concerns about hygiene conditions, or doubts about whether I would feel clean enough after bathing alongside fellow citizens. It sounds like something from the past, not a part of modern life, doesn’t it?

However, maybe we should give this idea another chance – not as a necessary solution but as an interesting option for sustainable cities of the future. The inspiration for this blog came from an article published in Low-tech Magazine, where author Kris De Decker presents a series of intriguing arguments in favor of bringing public baths back.

The article highlights that heating water for bathing is one of the largest energy expenditures in households. Adding to that the heating of living spaces, wastewater treatment, and the construction resources required for bathroom renovations, we end up with a true energy “monster” in every home. Modern bathing is essentially characterized as an unsustainable luxury that consumes large amounts of electricity, mostly derived from fossil fuels.

Sustainability advocates usually propose two solutions: technological innovations and behavioral changes. The first involves low-flow showers, solar water heaters, water recycling, and other advanced systems, while the second is a bit more radical, suggesting shorter showers, using cold water, or washing in a sink.

Photo illustration: Unsplash (Cloris Ying)

While these solutions may be suitable for some households, they are definitely not intended for the general population. Technological innovations are expensive and difficult to implement in older buildings, while promoting discomfort as a sacrifice for the planet is something few people will accept. So, what options do we have left?

Public bathing may sound like a relic of the past, but in terms of resource efficiency, nothing compares! Instead of 1,000 individual bathrooms consuming vast amounts of energy and materials, we could have one that is more economical, efficient, and sustainable.

Moreover, public bathhouses make the implementation of sustainable technologies significantly easier: solar collectors can cover a larger surface area, wastewater treatment systems become more cost-effective, and heat loss is reduced.

Interestingly, ancient Roman baths were more energy-efficient than our modern ones. Their hypocaust system, which distributed warm air through floors and walls using underground furnaces, maintained temperature with minimal fuel consumption. Studies show that a single public bathhouse burned around 60 trees per year – a negligible amount compared to today’s household energy consumption.

In addition to being energy-efficient, Roman bathhouses had another advantage – they were social hubs. People spent hours in them, socializing, relaxing, and enjoying luxury, and perhaps that’s exactly what we need in an era of increasing social disconnection.

Modern public bathhouses can be fully energy self-sufficient. A mountainous village in China already has a communal bathhouse for 5,000 people that uses solar energy, draws water from wells, and filters wastewater using plants. Europe could follow this example, utilizing surplus energy from solar and wind power to heat water and indoor spaces.

Perhaps it’s time to rethink our habits and return to old but better solutions. Shared bathing doesn’t have to mean a loss of privacy – we can design it in a modern and comfortable way. And when we consider the benefits – energy savings, cost reduction, and social connectedness – maybe reintroducing public bathhouses into our cities isn’t such a bad idea after all.

Milena Maglovski

Sustainability in the Western Balkans: the Path to Transition

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Ngo Minh Tuan)

The Western Balkans ESG Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in April 2024 and based in Belgrade. As the first organization in the region focused on ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) standards, its primary mission is to support the sustainable transition of the Western Balkan economies by integrating ESG principles into everyday business practices, public policies, and local communities. The Foundation also prioritizes improving transparency in reporting and education in sustainability, viewing these areas as key to the region’s long-term development.

The Foundation focuses on four key areas. Education is one of its main priorities. To raise awareness about ESG standards, the foundation develops various training platforms targeting the private and public sectors, media, universities, and civil society organizations. Its ESG e-learning platform ensures continuous education, while newsletters provide the latest information on these topics. Additionally, the Foundation supports the implementation of the European Green Deal and the development of expertise in specific ESG areas.

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Łukasz Winiarski)

“Reporting is also a crucial part of the Foundation’s work. The organization provides expertise in non-financial and ESG reporting in line with national and EU regulations, helping businesses achieve transparency and compliance. We are also developing a certification system for professionals and companies, enabling them to measure ESG goals and demonstrate progress in implementing sustainable practices,” explains Milena Mićanović, co-founder and director of the Foundation.

Communication and networking are essential to the Foundation’s operations. Connecting ESG experts and communities through a unique ecosystem facilitates the exchange of experiences and best practices. To this end, the Foundation has organized webinars, workshops, and roundtables, with plans to host an annual ESG conference. It places a particular focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), young entrepreneurs, and women entrepreneurs. Networking and education are seen as key to accelerating the adoption of these standards in the region.

In the coming years, the Foundation plans to organize the first regional ESG conference, expand its ESG e-learning platform, and further develop the certification system. It also aims to broaden its network of partners and empower local communities through education and networking, thereby contributing to the sustainable transformation of the region. Through these activities, the Foundation seeks to become a key partner in the sustainable transformation of the Western Balkans, promoting standards that enable long-term economic, social, and environmental sustainability in the region.

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Challenges in Implementation

While the Foundation’s work focuses on promoting ESG principles, it faces significant challenges. The specific conditions in the region, where ESG standards are not yet deeply embedded, pose a considerable obstacle. The greatest challenge is the low level of awareness about the importance of these issues. In many cases, ESG principles and sustainability are not prioritized in business practices or policies, complicating their implementation.Many organizations, especially SMEs that form the backbone of the Western Balkan economies, lack the resources, knowledge, or technical support needed to align with ESG requirements.

“Regulatory challenges also play a major role. While countries in the region formally aspire to EU membership, the implementation of legislative frameworks related to ESG and sustainability often lags, slowing progress toward the European Green Deal goals. There are also barriers to legislative alignment, and a lack of collaboration between the private sector, public institutions, civil society, and academia makes collective work on ESG topics difficult. Resistance to change, whether due to a lack of information or fear of new costs, remains a challenge for the Foundation as it strives to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices,” Mićanović emphasizes.

Prepared by Milica Radičević

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

SolarPower Summit 2025: Europe Enters the Era of Solar Flexibility

Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Michael_Pointner)

The SolarPower Europe association is celebrating its 40th anniversary at this year’s SolarPower Summit, which will take place on March 26-27 at Albert Hall in Brussels. The key theme of this year’s event will be the flexibility revolution in the energy sector, focusing on grid development, storage, and electrification in the service of renewable energy sources.

As the new European Commission and Parliament begin their work, crucial decisions regarding Europe’s energy future lie ahead. This year’s summit will address key questions such as:

  • What measures will the EU take to support a flexible solar future?
  • How can the models of baseload and reserve power be redefined?
  • How can Europe ensure the competitiveness of its solar sector?
  • Where will solar panels for the European market be manufactured?
  • Which EU member states are leading in solar initiatives?
  • How can companies leverage flexibility and electrification for further growth?

With the presence of policymakers, industry experts, and leaders in the renewable energy sector, this summit will provide insights into Europe’s new energy agenda and opportunities for the solar sector.

This year’s event holds special significance as SolarPower Europe celebrates four decades of work. This milestone will be marked under the slogan “Solar Flexibility for Europe’s Future”, emphasizing the need for a faster and more efficient energy transition.

Registration for the event is open, and all interested participants can apply via the official website of the organizer.

Energy portal

Chicago’s Municipal Buildings Powered by 100 percent Renewable Energy

Photo-illustration: Freepik (TravelScape)

As of January 1, 2025, Chicago has transitioned to fully supplying all of its more than 400 municipal buildings with energy from renewable sources. This number includes two international airports as well as nearly 100 fire stations.

According to global media reports, the majority of this energy is sourced from Illinois’ largest solar power plant, which has a capacity of 593 megawatts and generates enough electricity to meet the needs of over 100,000 households. Chicago powers 70 percent of its municipal buildings from this plant, while the remaining energy is obtained through renewable energy credits.

However, it is important to note that the city remains connected to the regional grid, which still heavily relies on nuclear energy. In 2022, Chicago signed an agreement not only to purchase renewable energy but also to leverage its purchasing power to finance new renewable energy projects. This initiative helps reduce carbon dioxide emissions and contributes to the development of new energy sources.

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It is estimated that by transitioning to 100 percent renewable energy, the city will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 300,000 metric tons annually. To put it in perspective, this reduction is equivalent to removing more than 60,000 cars from the roads each year.

With this decision, Chicago positions itself among the leading U.S. cities in the fight against climate change.

This transition began approximately ten years ago, and Chicago now has an even more ambitious goal—by 2035, all buildings in the city should be powered by renewable energy.

Energy portal

Japanese Researchers Develop Plastic That Decomposes in the Ocean Within a Day, Returning Phosphorus and Nitrogen to Nature

Photo-illustration: Freepik (vecstock - AI)

Japanese researchers have developed a revolutionary material that is not only an alternative to traditional plastic but is also significantly more sustainable than existing biodegradable materials. A team from the RIKEN Centre for Emergent Matter Science explains that this material is a type of plastic that completely decomposes in seawater within a few hours, while in soil, it breaks down in about ten days.

What sets this plastic apart from conventional ones is what remains after its decomposition. Traditional plastic, even when it breaks down into microplastics, persists in nature for hundreds of years and poses a serious threat to the environment. Microplastics can be extremely hazardous to living organisms.

On the other hand, research on this innovative plastic has shown that, upon decomposition in soil, it releases phosphorus and nitrogen—elements that act as natural fertilizers for plants. The non-toxic impact of this material can be attributed to the fact that it is made from compounds commonly used as food additives.

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Traditional plastics decompose slowly because they consist of large polymer chains that are difficult to separate. In contrast, this innovative plastic utilizes supramolecules, which are composed of molecules connected by weak bonds. Thanks to this structure, these bonds break easily, allowing the plastic to quickly return to its basic form—a monomer that can be reused.

During production, the team combined two simple monomers: sodium hexametaphosphate, which is used in food additives and fertilizers, and guanidinium sulfate, which can be easily obtained from natural raw materials. When these two monomers are mixed in water at room temperature, they form two layers—a liquid and a gel-like layer. By drying the gel, a glassy, transparent plastic is obtained. Although the plastic is resistant to fire and heat, it decomposes back into monomers within just a few hours when it comes into contact with salt water.

However, if greater durability in marine conditions is required, it is possible to coat the plastic with an environmentally friendly waterproof film to extend its lifespan.

Katarina Vuinac

UNIDO Strengthens Regional Cooperation in the Western Balkans

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Krakenimages)

Reaffirming its commitment to industrial transformation and regional integration in the Western Balkans, UNIDO convened a meeting with representatives of the Permanent Missions to introduce two new regional projects covering Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia.

Supported by the Government of Slovenia, the Slovene Enterprise Fund and the Government of Cyprus, these two initiatives focus on green and digital transformation while strengthening capacity-building efforts. The aim is to equip the region’s workforce and industries with skills and tools required in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.

With a longstanding presence in the Western Balkans, UNIDO addresses national development priorities while strengthening the region’s industrial capacities. UNIDO’s approach emphasizes coordinated regional interventions that align with the Western Balkan countries’ aspirations to deepen their integration into European markets and strengthen their global competitiveness.

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„Regional cooperation plays a critical role in addressing shared challenges and unlocking new opportunities. European Union member countries are well-positioned to share their transitional experiences and lessons learned. In line with its regional approach, UNIDO has been facilitating this exchange and will continue creating mutually beneficial linkages in the region”, said Fatou Haidara, Deputy to the Director General and Managing Director of the Directorate of Global Partnerships and External Relations.

UNIDO’s lasting cooperation with Slovenian counterparts is based on an innovative partnership model, fostering the engagement of the private sector, investment promotion and stronger business linkages in the region and beyond. This model is now being scaled up with the engagement of new development partners in the EU and was broadly promoted at the second regional conference held in June 2024.

One of the new projects presented focuses on strengthening supply chain resilience, enhancing quality infrastructure services, and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in meeting EU manufacturing standards in the automotive industry. By integrating regional suppliers into European value chains, the project aims to boost competitiveness and facilitate the sector’s adaptation to EU regulations.

Source: UNIDO

First Solar Power Plant Installed on the Roof of a Volvo Truck Service Center in Serbia

Photo: Volvo

Since its founding nearly 96 years ago, Volvo Trucks has built its business on strict adherence to high quality, safety, and innovation standards. In recent decades, the company has expanded its mission to place a special focus on environmental protection, establishing itself as an industry leader in sustainable business practices and innovation. As part of its global strategy to reduce its environmental footprint, Volvo Trucks Serbia has taken a significant step forward by installing the first solar power plant on the roof of its service and business center in Novi Banovci.

Photo: Volvo

This project, implemented in collaboration with renewable energy experts, represents a key milestone in achieving ambitious sustainability and energy efficiency goals. The solar power plant on the roof of the Novi Banovci service center is not only an example of innovative approaches in the truck service industry but also tangible evidence of Volvo Trucks Serbia’s ongoing efforts to minimize its environmental impact.

According to expert estimates, solar panel production will meet a large portion of the service center’s electricity needs, with an expected annual output of around 170 MWh, significantly reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. In today’s environment, where electricity prices are continually rising and supply reliability is becoming increasingly uncertain, installing a solar power plant brings multiple benefits.

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In addition to reducing electricity costs, the annual reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 70 tons is a significant step toward achieving climate goals. This amount of carbon dioxide is equivalent to planting more than 3,200 trees, further emphasizing the company’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint and conserving natural resources. For the company, this project is just part of a broader strategy to reduce its environmental impact and recognize the importance of sustainable solutions in daily operations.

Volvo Trucks has also taken various measures to reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency in its service and sales centers in Novi Sad, Čačak, and Doljevac near Niš. Across all these locations, Volvo Trucks demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental preservation by implementing green technologies and optimized processes that minimize the negative impact on nature.

Prepared by Milica Radičević

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Finland Develops the Most Advanced Radioactive Waste Disposal System

Photo-illustration: AI

Finland has recently completed a trial run at its nuclear waste encapsulation facility, marking a significant step toward achieving a safer and more long-term solution for disposing of highly radioactive materials. This approach aims to ensure that the radioactivity decreases to a safe level over the course of several decades. Recognized as one of the most advanced nuclear waste management solutions, this project could serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges.

What Is Encapsulation and Why Is It Important?

Encapsulation is a technological process in which highly radioactive waste, such as spent fuel rods from nuclear reactors, is hermetically sealed in specially designed containers resistant to corrosion and mechanical damage. These containers are then transported and stored in deep geological repositories, located within stable rock formations at great depths. The objective of this process is to isolate radioactive materials for thousands of years—until radiation levels decrease to a safe threshold.

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Finland’s encapsulation facility is part of a broader complex dedicated to the final disposal of nuclear waste. Once the final disposal process begins, spent nuclear fuel will be transported from interim storage to this facility, where it will be securely packed into canisters before being transferred to underground repository tunnels, at depths ranging from 400 to 450 meters. The canisters will then be placed in specially designated deposition holes lined with bentonite clay, which provides additional protection against potential radioactive leakage, as explained by World Nuclear News (WNN).

Completion of the Trial Phase

The Finnish company responsible for this project has recently concluded the trial run of the final disposal process (Trial Run of Final Disposal – TRFD) at the encapsulation facility. The final canister used in this test phase—initiated in August last year—was successfully encapsulated, underwent structural inspection, and was transported to the underground repository at a depth of 430 meters, according to WNN.

During the trial phase, no actual radioactive materials were used; instead, non-radioactive test elements were employed to simulate the process. Once the necessary analyses are completed and any technical improvements are made, the company will receive authorization to officially commence the final disposal of spent nuclear fuel from Finland’s two nuclear power plants.

Energy portal

CircuBot: An Innovation in Recycling That Could Change the Future of Waste Management

Photo: CircuBot

S orting, processing, and reusing waste materials are key steps toward achieving the goals of a circular economy. The CircuBot project, funded by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia as part of the Green Program for Science and Industry Cooperation, offers an innovative solution with the potential to improve recycling processes through automation. Developing a circular economy and more efficient recycling hinges on precise waste separation and sorting. This is precisely where CircuBot introduces a revolutionary approach: automated sorting with the help of robots.

The project responds to the strict regulations of the European Commission, which require member states to reduce municipal waste sent to landfills to 10 percent of total waste by 2035. Considering the current situation, with recycling rates in the European Union ranging from 20 percent to 60 percent and Serbia recycling less than 2 percent of its municipal waste, it is clear that swift action is needed to create a more efficient waste management infrastructure.

While many European Union countries already widely use automated sorting systems, Serbia still relies on manual labor in recycling centers, which not only slows down the process but also creates unsafe working conditions. CircuBot aims to address this issue: by automating waste separation with robots, it increases recycling efficiency and creates safer working environments. This technology could significantly reduce landfill waste and accelerate the transition to a circular economy.

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Prototype Development

CircuBot combines advanced robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning to develop a system that automatically detects, sorts, and analyzes waste. A prototype system has been developed through the collaboration of two leading Serbian teams in robotics and AI—from the Faculty of Engineering Sciences in Kragujevac and the School of Electrical Engineering in Belgrade. It uses robotic arms, industrial cameras, and advanced computational analysis to identify and separate various types of waste, including PET packaging, cans, and electronic waste. In the project’s initial phase, the team focused on developing the prototype in a laboratory setting, using e-waste samples obtained from leading Serbian e-recycling firms. The prototype concept is based on a robotic arm and an industrial camera that detects waste moving along a conveyor belt. Using images of the waste, the system automatically localizes and classes various waste types, after which the robotic arm physically sorts them. This approach not only accelerates the recycling process but also reduces the need for human labor in hazardous conditions.

In addition to increasing efficiency, CircuBot offers other positive impacts. Automation in recycling significantly improves worker safety and health, creating a more comfortable work environment compared to current conditions, which involve manual sorting in standing positions and often unhealthy surroundings. Furthermore, developing this technology contributes to building a team of robotics, AI, and computer vision experts who will tackle technological challenges and advance the industry.

The CircuBot project will be a key element in accelerating Serbia’s transformation toward a sustainable waste management system aligned with European standards and the goals of a circular economy. This pioneering project not only demonstrates the potential of innovation but also provides concrete solutions to long-term environmental challenges, laying a new foundation for responsible waste management in the future.

At the International Fair of Technology in Belgrade in 2024, the project results were showcased for the first time. Visitors were introduced to the key elements of the prototype, including the mechanism for automated waste sorting and the AI-powered control interface. They had the opportunity to see a live prototype demonstration and engage with team members about technical challenges and the project’s next steps.

The project authors are Arso Vukićević, PhD Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Engineering Sciences, University of Kragujevac; Kosta Jovanović, PhD, Associate Professor at the School of Electrical Engineering, University of Belgrade; and Dragana Nišić, PhD, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Mining and Geology, University of Belgrade.

CircuBot Project Team

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

DR Congo Plans to Protect 550,000 Square Kilometers of the World’s Largest Remaining Tropical Forest

Photo-illustration: Freepik (wirestock)

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has recently unveiled an ambitious plan to protect and preserve the world’s largest remaining tropical rainforest. President Félix Tshisekedi emphasized that the project will involve the creation of the world’s largest tropical forest reserve along the Congo River Basin, spanning more than 550,000 square kilometers of forest.

This initiative represents a crucial step in safeguarding forest ecosystems within the Congo Basin, whose forests constitute a significant portion of the world’s natural resources. By establishing a green corridor that will connect the Kivu region with the capital, Kinshasa, DR Congo aims not only to preserve the rainforest but also to stimulate economic development and improve the living conditions of millions in the region. The planned expansion of the corridor to over 2,400 kilometers will be a major step toward sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, and mitigating the effects of climate change.

According to international media reports, President Tshisekedi underscored that this project extends beyond mere forest conservation, as it will also have a profound impact on local communities. Estimates suggest that the implementation of the green corridor could generate approximately 500,000 new jobs and secure one million tons of food annually for Kinshasa, Africa’s largest city.

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The project has received support from the European Union, which has mobilized €1 billion for this purpose. Additionally, the EU has allocated more than 40 million euros in grant funding to promote sustainable agriculture, the use of renewable energy sources, and biodiversity conservation.

Data shared by the World Economic Forum (WEF) indicate that the Congo River Basin serves as the world’s largest tropical forest carbon sink, absorbing 1.5 billion tons of CO2 annually. Furthermore, the basin’s peatlands store nearly 30 billion tons of carbon dioxide. Approximately 60 percent of the forests in this basin are located within DR Congo, which is home to nearly 10,000 unique species.

Energy portal

EBRD Financed Rail Crossing Between North Macedonia and Serbia Receives 2.8 million euros EU grant

Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Charles Forerunner)

An agreement securing 2.8 million euros grant from the European Union (EU) to develop a joint border railway station between North Macedonia and Serbia was signed today in Skopje by the First Deputy President of the Government and Minister of Transport, Mr Nikoloski and EBRD Head of North Macedonia, Mr Türkmenoğlu.

The EU funds, which are provided through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) , complement a 5 million euros loan already provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and will finance construction and technical assistance.

The joint border crossing will be located in Tabanovce, in North Macedonia, on the Corridor X rail route, which is  part of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) extension to the Western Balkans region.

Works include upgrading the railway station’s existing buildings and constructing new energy efficient buildings with photovoltaic panels. Once in use, the joint station will be shared by staff from both countries, helping optimise border customs control procedures and reducing waiting times, travel for people and goods. This will lead to better regional connectivity and integration on Corridor X.

His Excellency Michalis Rokas, EU Ambassador to North Macedonia, said that “with the grant of 2.8 million euros, the EU is directly supporting efforts to upgrade the Corridor X railway system and improve regional connectivity. This project aims to transform the barriers that borders create into opportunities for faster connection to the EU. And this is not all. With the new Reform and Growth Facility, the EU’s support for regional connectivity will grow even stronger.”

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Fatih Türkmenoğlu, EBRD Head of North Macedonia, said: “This project is a result of joint efforts and coordination between the EBRD, EU/WBIF, and authorities of North Macedonia and Serbia to improve regional cooperation and connectivity, and we are proud to be an important part of it. The EBRD has been helping the country to improve its transport links in the country and with the region, and in the railway sector alone we have invested over 340 million euros.”

“The joint rail crossing between Macedonia and Serbia will improve the communication between the two countries and we will get one-stop-shop crossing for the road and railway traffic. I hope that this will be an introduction towards re-establishing the regular passenger railway line between Skopje and Belgrade, which will require efforts on both sides. The project is worth 7.4 million euros in the construction part, and 250.000 euros for the consultant services and supervision. The Corridor X represents the main economic blood flow of the country, which will improve the movement of goods and people, as well as the export and the import towards and from Europe resulting into new jobs, increased economic activity and faster transit of the passengers and the goods through the country, making it more attractive destination”, said the First Deputy President and Transport Minister Nikoloski.

The project is a key priority for the country and part of the European Commission’s connectivity agenda for the Western Balkans.

Source: EBRD

Two Trees for Every Child – Love That Grows in Nature

Photo-illustration: freepik (freepik)

The energy brought by the birth of a pure love has the power to spread miles away. For every love that begins to grow through the birth or adoption of a child in Wales, two saplings simultaneously start to take root—one on Welsh soil and the other under the African sky. This symbolic message of the unbreakable bond between humans and nature began its journey in 2008. Since then, thousands of trees have grown alongside generations of children.

The Plant! Program

More than fifteen years ago, the Welsh Government launched an initiative called Plant! with the idea that for every child born or adopted in Wales, a tree would be planted in the country. The initiative, carried out by the government organization Natural Resources Wales (NRW), lasted until 2023.

To learn more about this program, I visited the official website of the Welsh Government and found some interesting information. The initiative was implemented automatically, without requiring parents or guardians to sign up. Once a tree was planted, a certificate was issued and sent to the child’s address. Interestingly, this document was environmentally friendly, produced from sustainably managed forests. Along with the certificate, a letter provided information about the exact location of the child’s tree, allowing the family to track its growth. Additionally, trees were not planted randomly across Wales but in specifically designated areas that would form new forests over time.

The Planting Continues

Photo-illustration: Freepik (jcomp)

The charity organization Size of Wales, which focuses on reforestation and climate action, joined the Plant! program. Before continuing the story, it is important to highlight that this organization places special emphasis on working with partner countries such as Uganda. This is significant because, in 2014, the Plant! program expanded to ensure that for every tree planted in Wales, another one was planted in Uganda. The implementation of this part of the program was taken over by Size of Wales, meaning that today, every child born or adopted in Wales receives two trees. Although the government program ended in 2023, this organization has continued its efforts to this day.

The certificates with tree location details are particularly fascinating for the trees planted in Uganda, considering that they are located on a different continent, thousands of miles away.

The Bigger Goal of Size of Wales

If we take a closer look at the name Size of Wales, we will notice that it translates literally to “the size of Wales.” This is no coincidence. The symbolism behind the organization’s name reflects its main goal: to protect and restore tropical forests worldwide over an area equivalent to the size of Wales.

Uganda holds a special place in the heart of this organization, as it has one of the highest deforestation rates in the world. Data shows that between 2001 and 2020, Uganda lost nearly 920,000 hectares of forest. If this trend continues, the country faces the risk of losing its entire forest cover by 2040.

Indigenous and local communities are the best guardians of forests, as their knowledge has been passed down through generations for centuries. The Plant! program is not the only way this organization contributes to reforestation and the fight against climate change and soil erosion in Uganda. Other initiatives, such as the Mable Trees program, ensure that fruit trees are planted in the gardens of family homes in the Malbe region of Uganda.

Additionally, Size of Wales collaborates with Indigenous peoples and local communities in Latin America, other parts of Africa, and Southeast Asia.

Katarina Vuinac

Global Battery Market: China Leads, Europe Seeks Solutions

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Science in HD)

The global battery market is undergoing rapid development driven by soaring demand and declining prices. According to the latest report from the International Energy Agency (IEA), 2024 marks a turning point for the battery industry, as demand has surpassed 1 terawatt-hour (TWh) for the first time. At the same time, the average price of batteries for electric vehicles has fallen below $100 per kilowatt-hour, reaching the threshold of cost parity with conventional cars.

China at the Forefront of Global Production

China currently dominates the global battery market, accounting for more than three-quarters of total production. In 2024, average battery prices in China dropped by 30 percent, making them over 30 percent cheaper than in Europe and 20 percent cheaper than in North America. This price decline in recent years has resulted in many electric vehicles in China becoming more affordable than their conventional counterparts.

China’s large-scale production provides a significant competitive advantage, with the country having manufactured more than 70 percent of all electric vehicle batteries ever produced. Its focus has been on cost-effective lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which now make up half of the global market. Additionally, China boasts a vast number of manufacturers—over 100—which has led to reduced profit margins, highly competitive pricing, a well-developed supply chain ecosystem, and a specialized workforce.

More:

Challenges for Europe and the U.S.

Unlike China, European battery manufacturers face a series of challenges. Production costs are, on average, 50 percent higher than in China, and many manufacturers are postponing or canceling expansion plans due to uncertain profitability. The bankruptcy of Sweden’s Northvolt—the largest European investment in domestic battery production—highlights the difficulties in competing with Asian manufacturers. However, some South Korean companies have begun investing in LFP battery production in Europe in an effort to narrow the price gap.

In the United States, battery production capacity has doubled since 2022, supported by tax incentives. However, domestic production of battery components remains insufficient. The majority of anodes and cathodes are still imported, limiting the self-sufficiency of the American industry.

While China continues to dominate, Japan and South Korea remain key players with significant investments abroad. Meanwhile, Southeast Asia and Morocco are emerging as new production hubs. Chinese investments in Indonesia have already led to the launch of battery and graphite anode production, while Morocco—home to the world’s largest phosphate reserves—is attracting substantial investments in LFP battery component manufacturing.

Despite China’s current dominance, battery production is expanding rapidly worldwide. South Korean and Japanese manufacturers are expected to continue investing in new technologies, while European and American companies will focus on reducing costs and developing their own production capacities.

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