TIRANA, ALBANIA – On January 30-31, 2025, consortium members of EUKI project Climate Bridges – Network in Action gathered in Tirana for a two-day strategic meeting to launch the next phase of the initiative. The meeting brought together environmental organisations from across the Western Balkans to plan and coordinate efforts aimed at strengthening transnational climate action and enhancing governance models in the region. This collaboration will help align local priorities with broader climate goals and support the implementation of more effective regional climate policies.

The Climate Bridges Network brings together environmental organisations from across the region, including the leading organisation Urban Research Institute (Albania), CIPRA International (Austria), CENER 21 (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Association Green Istria (Croatia), and the Center for Climate Change (North Macedonia). These organisations share expertise in climate governance, energy solutions, environmental advocacy, and policy implementation.

Driving Regional Climate Action

This strategic gathering is a significant step forward in addressing the climate challenges faced by the Western Balkans. Despite progress in developing national climate strategies, countries in the region still face substantial hurdles in terms of policy implementation and coordination. By establishing a unified framework for action, the Climate Bridges initiative aims to bridge these gaps and drive effective climate policies across borders.

The project will focus on enhancing climate action through the following key activities:

• Nine campaigns will address critical issues like climate-neutral mobility and the just transition, raising awareness and encouraging community engagement.
• Two municipalities – one in Albania and one in North Macedonia will develop Green Agendas to ensure inclusive, sustainable transitions.
• Four national exchange events and two transnational forums will facilitate collaboration between civil society, governments, and other stakeholders.
• The creation of a shared resource to compile best practices for climate mitigation across the region.
• The development of a manifesto for transnational climate governance in the Western Balkans.
• A competition for best climate policy implementation, with an award ceremony recognising the most effective solutions.
  

A Stronger, Unified Network

The Climate Bridges project builds on the success of its earlier phase, which began in 2021 with just four organisations. Since then, the network has expanded significantly, now comprising 35 organisations from across the Western Balkans and beyond. This expansion has created a powerful, interconnected group of stakeholders working together to tackle climate change at multiple levels.

The initiative emphasises that climate change knows no borders, and neither should the solutions. Through this cooperative framework, the project fosters long-term partnerships that will continue to drive climate action across the region well after the project concludes in March 2027.

Looking Ahead

As the Climate Bridges network moves forward, it will continue to serve as a model for regional collaboration, proving that shared efforts can lead to effective climate governance, enhanced capacity building, and more robust climate policies. The project’s emphasis on local contexts, combined with a regional approach, ensures that the Western Balkans will be better equipped to meet their climate goals and overcome future challenges.

Want to Join the Climate Bridges Network?

If you’re interested in joining this dynamic network and contributing to impactful climate action in the Western Balkans, we invite you to reach out to us.

For more information or to get involved, please contact us at email: network@climate-bridges.com

The Path Forward: What Needs to Be Done? 

Michaela Valentová from Czech Technical University (CTU) set the tone for the discussion by translating her scientific insights into three clear points that we need to focus on implementing. These are:

1. Lower temperatures in district heating networks – More energy-efficient buildings will enable a shift to lower temperatures, making better use of renewable sources and heat pumps.
2. Diversify energy sources – A combination of heat pumps, cogeneration units, and other modern technologies can provide stable and sustainable heating.
3. Integrate heating with the electricity sector – Flexibility services and better use of locally produced electricity can support a more efficient system.

„Lowering temperatures in district heating systems is possible because we now have more energy-efficient buildings where high temperatures of 90–100 degrees are no longer needed. On the contrary, reducing temperatures allows for greater integration of renewable energy sources, which then operate more efficiently,“ said Valentová.
However, she also emphasised that in order to achieve them, we need a clear and predictable policy environment. In the end, all speakers agreed on this.

Opportunities and Success Stories: From the Danish town of Felding to the Czech municipality of Svatý Jan nad Malší

A Danish example was presented by a representative of a company specialising in heat pumps – Filip Tesař, who stated, „While every Czech heating plant has a chimney, the Danish one has a heat pump.“ He pointed to the aforementioned political environment as the key to the success of Denmark’s heating sector transformation.

Successful examples of local transformation in Czechia are already known, or promising projects are emerging, where the involvement of local residents is always emphasised. An example is a feasibility study for district heating in Jiříkov demonstrating that combining heat pumps and cogeneration units is effective, but high investment costs remain a challenge. Or Milevsko, where a mix of photovoltaics and heat pumps achieved 70% self-sufficiency for an apartment building, leading to long-term savings.

A good example of what can be done even at the level of a small municipality was shown by the mayor of Svatý Jan nad Malší – Růžena Balláková.

„The municipality started addressing district heating as early as 2002, when it was decided to build a large wood chip boiler plant at the local school and install distribution pipelines to other municipal buildings. Thanks to the municipality owning 129 hectares of forest, a significant portion of the fuel supply for heating was secured. In 2004, a second, larger boiler plant was built, and the district heating network was expanded to include new developments with 12 municipal apartments and 15 family houses. Two years later, a third phase extended the network to eight older houses and a municipal apartment building with five units.“

Today, Svatý Jan nad Malší has a fully modernised heating plant, which, in addition to manual fueling, can also be monitored and controlled remotely.

What’s Crucial for the Future?

Workshop participants agreed that successful decarbonisation of Czech heating requires a clear national strategy, financial support for grid modernisation, and cooperation between municipalities and the private sector. Solutions exist—the key is to implement them effectively and at a national level, while prioritizing renewable energy with people participation. 

At the workshop, we also presented a new publication, The Economics of Electricity Sharing which is freely available for download but only in Czech, as it primarily focuses on the Czech context.

8 Pilot Cities trained to develop long-term Climate Strategies, with municipal staff guided in launching impactful measures and campaigns.

6 Webinars on climate planning, providing expert insights and practical tools for municipalities and stakeholders.

1 Guidance Document – “Developing Ambitious Local Long-Term Climate Neutrality Strategies”, a multilingual resource covering vision setting, citizen engagement, and governance.

1 Study Visit – A two-day tour in Chemnitz, Germany, showcasing net-zero strategies in energy, transport, and heating, fostering knowledge exchange among municipalities.

Together, we drive climate neutrality at the local level!

The event brought together leading experts and gathered close to 250 attendees (online and on-site), to explore the future of circular construction and put forward the Circon4Climate project’s tools and guidelines. The conclusion is simple – sustainable transition already has the instruments to make it a reality.

The CirCon4Climate conference, held on February 18-19, 2025, in Warsaw, brought together leading experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore the future of circular construction. Organized by INNOWO with support of the European Climate Initiative – EUKI, the event addressed how Europe can accelerate the transition to sustainable, resource-efficient building practices through policy, design, procurement, and innovation.

Key Highlights from the Conference
A special highlight was the participation of H.E. Viktor Elbling, Ambassador of Germany to Poland, alongside Matthias Daun from EUKI and Leszek Drogosz (City of Warsaw), who emphasized the importance of cross-border collaboration. Discussions focused on circular building design, featuring insights from Kryštof Kratochvíl (Skanska CEE), Barbora Vlasatá (UCEEB) and Ewa Kowalska-Ocneanu of WSP, concluding that circular design helps both the budget and climate as the biggest cost of the project is embedded in preparation time.

Next session was dedicated to sustainable procurement strategies, led by experts such as Petran van Heel from Colliers, Leszek Drogosz and Marcin Grądzki from City of Warsaw, Łukasz Rymarz from the Ministry of Development and Technology, Piotr Wołejko from the Construction Employers‘ Association stating that flexibility in procurement process is a powerful drive bringing circularity in construction.

Innovative low-carbon building materials were a key focus, with contributions from experts such as Mateusz Kozicki and Sebastian Wall from Building Research Institute (ITB), Alenka Mauko Pranjić from ZAG, Dominik Campanella from Concular, and Ben Hague from INCIEN demonstrating how materials can reduce environmental impact while maintaining high design standards. The experts also explored material cadastres and urban resource mapping, showcasing solutions from Leibniz Institute by Georg Schiller, Chalmers University by Asst. Prof. Maud Lanau, and the National Institute of Architecture and Urban Planning represented by Katarzyna Domagalska and Marta Akińcza presenting case studies on how to optimize resource efficiency in cities.

The event concluded with a forward-looking discussion on scaling circular construction, featuring Jakob Norman-Hansen of Bloxhub, Marten de Jong  of de Architekten Cie. B.V., Paweł Wołejsza, Architect and Olivier Pickartz from the Hot Dip Galvanizing Industry Association. Experts stressed that Europe possesses extensive expertise but must strengthen collaboration to scale circular solutions beyond pilot projects.

Moderated by Ron van Bloois and Agnieszka Sznyk, PhD, the conference was inspired by circularity guides designed to help investors, architects, and construction companies implement sustainable techniques. These resources support the reduction of waste and resource consumption, promoting a more circular economy in the construction sector.

What’s Next for Circular Construction?
As the conference concluded, one question remained: Where do we stand on the Circular Economy tipping point? The answer lies in how effectively we integrate knowledge, policy, and industry action. With the right design, circular construction can be both aesthetically compelling and functionally effective, proving that sustainability and innovation go hand in hand.

A Community Hub with a Purpose

At the opening on 6 December 2024, representatives from the Riga City Council, Ministry of Climate and Energy, local businesses, and community activists gathered to celebrate this milestone. The event wasn’t just about speeches – it was an interactive experience. Guests witnessed live demonstrations of material reuse, learnt about the development history of the centre, and enjoyed a unique musical performance where instruments were crafted from reclaimed objects.

But Sadarbnīca is more than just a local initiative – it is a space where several EUKI projects have met and aligned their activities. We are particularly glad to welcome the „Young Energy Europe„ project as a „sister initiative“ of EUKI, facilitating the exchange of ideas and paving the way for exciting collaborations. This synergy strengthens Riga’s role as a leader in circular innovation and climate action, making Sadarbnīca a living lab for sustainable solutions.

A Space Designed for Circularity

Walking into Sadarbnīca, you immediately notice something different. The space itself is a manifestation of circular economy principles, where every detail has been thoughtfully curated to extend the life cycle of materials and minimise waste.

• 80% of the interior elements are made from reclaimed materials, repurposed to create a modern yet functional design.
• Old furniture sections, discarded fire hoses, electrical wiring covers, and broken chandelier shades have been given a second life as tables, shelving, and decorative elements.
• Modular workstations and flexible layouts ensure the space can quickly transform from a community meeting room to a hands-on repair workshop.

This design was made possible thanks to students and young designers from Latvian universities, who contributed their creativity and expertise. They used an „adaptive reuse“ approach, ensuring that the space can evolve with the changing needs of its users. The goal? A space that is dynamic, inclusive, and constantly innovating.

One of the most striking features of Sadarbnīca is its ability to blend aesthetics with sustainability. The furniture is a mix of refurbished vintage pieces and new elements created from industrial leftovers, while lighting solutions integrate salvaged components from various sources. The result is a warm, inviting atmosphere where people feel inspired to engage, collaborate, and create.

More Than Just a Workshop

Sadarbnīca is not just a venue – it’s an ecosystem for sustainable action. The space is equipped with a woodworking makerspace, where people can repair furniture, upcycle materials, and learn new crafting skills. It also serves as a meeting point for discussions, seminars, and knowledge exchange, fostering a collaborative approach to circular living.

The activities at Sadarbnīca are designed to empower citizens. Whether it’s a young entrepreneur testing a business model based on reuse, a local school organising an educational session, or a retiree restoring an old chair instead of discarding it – this is where small changes lead to a bigger impact.

The centre also provides a collaborative platform for businesses, bringing together local enterprises that are pioneering circular economy practices. Meetings take place in the form of thematic “circular economy breakfasts”.

A Step Towards a Greener Riga

Riga has set ambitious climate goals – to reduce CO2 emissions by 53% by 2030 and reach climate neutrality by 2050. However, energy efficiency alone is not enough. Reducing resource consumption and waste is equally important, and Sadarbnīca is a key tool achieving this.

As Viesturs Zeps, Chairman of the Riga City Council Housing and Environment Committee, noted at the opening:
„No major project succeeds without collaboration – between municipalities, citizens, and businesses. Sadarbnīca is a tool to bring these efforts together and turn ideas into action.“

The creation of this Urban Resource Centre is just the beginning. With its doors open to all who wish to learn, create, and contribute, Sadarbnīca is set to become a driving force in Riga’s circular transition.

The concept, design, arrangement and kick-start of the operations of the first Riga Urban Center were made possible within the framework of the project “Centres for Urban Resources, Reuse and Remanufacture (CURE+)”. Riga Energy Agency is implementing EUKI project CURE+ in cooperation with the Tartu City Government, Municipality of Kavala, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences and Elisava Barcelona School of Engineering and Design. The project aims to improve the management of construction and demolition waste generated by households through reuse and repair respecting the principles of the circular economy.

More information about the preparation of the Center can be found in the article.

The Second Conference on Ecosocial Education brought together over 150 participants to advance sustainability and social justice in education. Beyond discussions, six interactive workshops provided hands-on demonstrations of innovative educational approaches. The conference’s impact resonated nationally, receiving coverage on Slovenian national television, a local Koper TV channel, and a live interview on Radio Trieste.

The conference successfully bridged international and national perspectives. The opening day, held online on 26 September 2024, featured keynote addresses from Dr Daniel Christian Wahl, a biologist and expert in holistic science and natural design, who discussed „Bioregional Regeneration as a Tool and Pathway to Climate Justice,“ and Dr Mirela Sertić Perić, who explored „Developing a Sustainable Future: Examining Education for Sustainable Development.“ These presentations set the stage for deeper reflections on the integration of ecosocial principles in education. The online segment also featured the „Gifts“ session, where Slovenian educators shared best practices in sustainability education, presenting diverse and innovative approaches to fostering ecological awareness, climate justice, and mindful learning in schools.

On 27 September 2024, the conference continued in person at the Faculty of Education, University of Primorska. The day opened with keynote lectures by Assoc. Prof. Dr Tomaž Grušovnik („Philosophy for Children and Environmental Ethics“) and Dr Dejan Meh Savić („Without Justice, We Cannot Solve the Climate Crisis“). These thought-provoking discussions were followed by a roundtable featuring experts from the Faculty of Education at the University of Primorska, representatives from the Ministry of Education, and the National Education Institute of Slovenia, reaffirming institutional commitment to embedding sustainability and climate literacy into national education policies.

Afternoon sessions provided hands-on workshops exploring climate and sustainability through interactive methods. Educators and experts led activities on climate change experiments, environmental education in protected areas, the social and ecological impact of food production, just climate transitions, experiential learning through climate walks, and global environmental challenges.

The Classroom for Life project equips teachers with tools to become sustainability facilitators. It develops training programmes, a dedicated handbook, and adaptable learning scenarios tailored for primary schools. The training programme developed within the project aligns with pressing educational and societal challenges, making it applicable for both current and future systemic national projects initiated by the Ministry of Education. As a project partner, the Faculty of Education at the University of Primorska will ensure that the learning materials produced within the project remain accessible to students and are systematically integrated into faculty courses, fostering long-term engagement with ecosocial education.

The project fosters collaboration between public schools, environmental NGOs, and eco-villages, strengthening policy engagement and ensuring the integration of ecosocial education into broader systemic frameworks. 

MAKSTIL ist ein Stahlwerk in Skopje, Nordmazedonien, das über 1.000 Menschen beschäftigt. Im Gegensatz zu traditionellen Stahlwerken, die Eisenerz und einen Hochofen verwenden, nutzt MAKSTIL Stahl-Schrott als Ausgangsstoff. Der grundlegende Prozess läuft folgendermaßen ab: Zunächst schmilzt ein elektrischer Lichtbogenofen Schrott und in einem Pfannenofen wird der flüssige Stahl auf die gewünschte Qualität verfeinert. Im nächsten Schritt werden in einem Stranggussverfahren so genannte Brammen, ein Halbfertigprodukt, hergestellt. Im Walzwerk werden diese Brammen wieder erwärmt und schließlich flach gewalzt und auf die benötigten Abmessungen zugeschnitten. Das Endprodukt ist so genannter warmgewalzter Stahl bzw. Stahlbleche. Diese Stahlbleche werden in über 40 Länder exportiert und im Schiffsbau, im Bergbau, in Industriemaschinen und z. B. im Windkraftanlagenbau eingesetzt.

Interessante Fakten zum Stahlrecycling (EuRIC AISBL, 2020)

• Etwa 90 % des Stahls in Europa wird am Ende seiner Lebensdauer gesammelt und recycelt.
• Recycelter Stahl reduziert die CO2-Emissionen um 58 % und spart 72 % der für die Primärproduktion benötigten Energie.
• Etwa 70 % des gesamten bisher produzierten Stahls wird noch verwendet.

Effizienzsteigerung durch EBT-System
Die Energy Scouts Eleonora Jovanovska und Tijana Shaleva, beide ausgebildete Elektroingenieure, konzentrieren sich auf die Energieperspektive. Bei der Suche nach einem praktischen Projekt im Rahmen ihrer Energy Scout-Ausbildung dachten sie groß – wirklich groß. Beide wussten, dass der Elektrolichtbogenofen – der Kernprozess – mit betrieblichen Ineffizienzen zu kämpfen hat, die sich auf die Produktivität und Energieeffizienz auswirken. Der Vorgang des Kippens eines Ofens, um geschmolzenen Stahl zu gießen, wird „Abstich“ genannt. Das bestehende Abstichsystem führt zu erheblichen Wärmeverlusten und damit zu einem erhöhten Energieverbrauch, zu einem beschleunigten Verbrauch von Elektroden und feuerfesten Materialien sowie zu höheren Stahlverlusten, da auch Schlacke in die Pfanne abgestochen wird. Darüber hinaus führen logistische Herausforderungen wie längere Abstichzeiten, ein längerer Abstichkanal und begrenzte Krankapazitäten zu Beeinträchtigungen in der Effizienz des Prozesses. Diese Herausforderung können zu Verzögerungen bei der Schrottbeschickung führen, was wiederum die Gesamtproduktivität beeinträchtigt. Zeit ist ein entscheidender Faktor für die Produktivität.

Zur Bewältigung dieser Herausforderungen und zur Verbesserung der Energieeffizienz und Produktivität bei gleichzeitiger Senkung der Kosten und der Umweltbelastung, plant das Makstil-Team die Umstellung des Elektrolichtbogenofens auf ein sogenanntes Eccentric Bottom Tapping (EBT)-System. EBT führt zu schlackenarmem oder sogar schlackenfreiem Abstich und kürzeren Abstichzeiten. Es reduziert auch den Elektrodenverbrauch und verbessert die Lebensdauer der Pfanne.

Die Umstellung des EBT-Systems erfolgt in mehreren Phasen
Die erste Phase umfasst eine Analyse des derzeitigen Betriebs und die Vorbereitung auf die Integration des neuen Systems. Danach folgt die Installation des EBT-Systems, die das Testen der neuen Ausrüstung und die Schulung der Mitarbeiterinnen und Mitarbeiter umfasst. Das Projekt wird mit minimaler Unterbrechung der Produktionsprozesse durchgeführt, um den reibungslosen Betrieb der Produktionslinien zu gewährleisten.

Potenzielle Energie- und Kosteneinsparungen
Was die Energieeinsparungen anbelangt, so wird das neue System den Stromverbrauch voraussichtlich um 40 kWh pro Tonne senken, was zu jährlichen Kosteneinsparungen von etwa 1 Million Euro allein für Strom führt. Außerdem werden weniger Elektroden, feuerfeste Materialien, Aluminium und auch weniger von anderen Materialien verbraucht, was die Betriebskosten um eine weitere 1 Million Euro pro Jahr senkt. Nach nur 2,58 Jahren hat sich die Investition amortisiert und führt bei regelmäßiger Wartung zu langfristigen Einsparungen über einen geschätzten Zeitraum von 15 Jahren.

Neben den ökonomischen Vorteilen wird sich das Projekt auch positiv auf die Umwelt auswirken. Die Verringerung des Stromverbrauchs wird zu einem Rückgang der CO₂-Emissionen um etwa 6.700 Tonnen jährlich führen, ein großer Schritt in Richtung eines nachhaltigeren und umweltfreundlicheren Betriebs.6,697.53 tons annually, a big step towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly operation.

Prozessoptimierung

• Branche: Metallindustrie
• Energiequelle: Elektrizität
• Einsparpotenzial Strom: 11.896 MWh/Jahr
• Einsparpotenzial CO₂: 6.697 Tonnen CO₂ /Jahr
• Potenzielle Kostenreduktion: 2.131.441 €/Jahr
• Investitionskosten:  5.500.000 €
• Amortisationszeit: 2,58 Jahre

• Unternehmen:
  MAKSTIL AD
  16 Makedonska brigada, 18
  1000 Skopje
  Republik Nordmazedonien
  www.makstil.com

Eleonora Jovanovska und Tijana Shaleva bringen ihre Erfahrung auf den Punkt
„Als Energy Scouts können wir theoretisches Wissen in der Praxis anwenden und uns echten Herausforderungen in unseren Produktionsprozessen stellen. Wir schaffen eine spezifische Lösung, die sich direkt auf die Energieeffizienz und die Nachhaltigkeit von Makstil auswirkt. Wir entwickeln wichtige Fähigkeiten weiter wie Problemlösungen entwickeln und Innovationen integrieren und arbeiten mit einem großen Team aus verschiedenen Abteilungen zusammen. Darüber hinaus machen wir uns mit den neuesten Technologien und Methoden im Energiemanagement vertraut, was für unsere berufliche Laufbahn von entscheidender Bedeutung ist. Wir freuen uns darauf, die Wirksamkeit der angewandten Lösungen zu messen und die Ergebnisse der Geschäftsleitung zu präsentieren.“

Ihr praktisches Projekt überzeugte die Jury aufgrund seines hohen Einsparpotenzials und dem Mut Kernprozesse anzugehen, so dass Eleonora und Tijana mit dem Titel „Best Energy Scouts of the year“ in Nordmazedonien ausgezeichnet wurden.

Weitere Best Practices findet ihr hier: Best Practice DE – Young Energy Europe

The following contributions are included:

1. Modern Guidelines for Sustainable Development Education (Tomaž Grušovnik): investigates the theoretical foundations of education for sustainability. Grušovnik emphasises the importance of fostering critical consciousness and moral reasoning to resolve conflicts between environmental values and anthropocentric lifestyles, highlighting the European GreenComp framework as a reference for competency development.

2. The Classroom for Life Project (Maja Vrčon): contextualises the project’s origins, rooted in pilot teacher training programs funded by EIT Climate-KIC (RIS EduEx – Education Experiments). Vrčon identifies systemic barriers to teaching ecological literacy – time constraints, lack of resources, insufficient teacher training, and limited institutional support. The article underscores the project’s alignment with the European Council’s recommendations on education for the green transition and its emphasis on participatory, experiential, and interdisciplinary pedagogies.

3. Games for Climate Change Adaptation Education (Liliana Vižintin): examines the pedagogical potential of game-based learning in addressing climate change adaptation. The article evaluates ecosystem-based adaptation strategies and their representation in educational games, emphasising their capacity to bridge the gap between environmental awareness and behavioural change. Vižintin provides an analysis of specific games, detailing their cognitive, socio-emotional, and behavioral learning outcomes.

4. The Impact of Experiential Learning on First-Grade Students’ Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Earthworms and Composting (Janja Plazar and Anja Cijan): employs an empirical framework to assess the effectiveness of experiential learning in shaping young learners‘ environmental attitudes. The study demonstrates the potential of direct engagement with natural processes to foster ecological awareness and positive behavioural intentions in early childhood education.

5. Analysis of Educators’ Perspectives on Outdoor Learning with Emphasis on Safety (Petra Furlan and Nina Krmac): explores the pedagogical and logistical challenges of implementing outdoor education. Through qualitative analysis, the authors highlight educators‘ concerns about safety while recognising the profound benefits of nature-based learning environments in enhancing student engagement and environmental literacy.

6. Outdoor Learning Through the Lens of Early Childhood Education Students  (Nataša Dolenc and Nastja Cotič): investigates the perceptions of pre-service preschool teachers regarding outdoor learning. The findings reveal the transformative potential of outdoor environments in fostering holistic child development and ecological sensibilities.

7. Interdisciplinary Education for Proactive Individuals: Promoting Complexity and Understanding in Natural Sciences (Darja Rizmal): underscores the importance of institutional collaboration in advancing interdisciplinary scientific education. The article advocates for integrative approaches that connect natural sciences with broader ecological, societal, and economic systems.

8. Integrating English Language Learning and Environmental Education through CLIL (Lara Kodrič and Silva Bratož): presents a case study on using the Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach to teach environmental topics in English. The study highlights the dual benefits of language acquisition and ecological awareness, particularly in early primary education.

9. Interdisciplinary Integration of Mathematics and Science in Fifth-Grade Education (Marina Volk and Mara Cotič): explores the use of problem-based learning to develop sustainability competencies. The study demonstrates how mathematical modeling and scientific inquiry can be effectively combined to address real-world environmental challenges.

10. Mathematical Literacy, Modeling, and Realistic Problem Solving for Sustainability (Darjo Felda, Mara Cotič, and Daniel Doz): explores the role of mathematical literacy and realistic problem-solving in fostering sustainability-oriented thinking. The authors argue for the integration of complex mathematical problems to develop critical thinking skills in addressing ecological issues.

11. Validation of the Slovenian Questionnaire on Sustainable Behavior for Higher Education Students (Tina Štemberger and Jurka Lepičnik Vodopivec): evaluates a psychometric instrument designed to measure sustainability-related behaviours among university students. The study provides insights into the behavioural dimensions of sustainability education and the potential for targeted interventions in higher education.

This publication integrates theoretical background with practical applications, offering a multifaceted exploration of sustainability education. Its academic contributions provide a foundation for educators, policymakers, and researchers to innovate pedagogical approaches for fostering a generation of environmentally literate, critically engaged, and proactive global citizens.

Read the monography here.

The project puts focus on raising awareness and understanding of solar energy communities among citizens and public authorities. By introducing best practices from across the EU, SunSharing builds the capacity of local stakeholders to implement sustainable energy solutions. With better policies and expertise, participating countries are better equipped to embrace a decarbonised future.

SunSharing project presented best practice examples and guidebooks for supporting energy communities, available from the project website in all languages of the project implementation.

The following examples of good practice have been in the focus of the SunSharing project, and have been discussed with the aim of replication during the project’s events.

Building a sustainable future with energy communities

As the world moves toward a renewable future, the concept of energy communities has become a powerful tool for local empowerment, energy independence, and environmental sustainability. But what are they? Energy communities promote sustainable, democratic, and locally produced energy, which encourages active participation of citizens on a local level. Citizen energy communities (CEC) provide opportunities for local employment, helping the local economy but also reducing greenhouse gas emissions along the way. They are citizen initiatives developed in response to the need for more sustainable and decentralised energy systems. Their main purpose is to enable citizens, local communities, organisations, and others to produce, consume, and share renewable energy.

Bulgaria: Gabrovo’s innovative public-private partnership

Gabrovo, Bulgaria, provides an inspiring example of leveraging public-private partnerships for renewable energy. In 2023, the municipality initiated a crowdfunding campaign to finance a 99.55 kW solar installation at a regional landfill.

The campaign attracted 73 investors, primarily local citizens and small businesses, emphasising the importance of community engagement. Gabrovo’s local government played a pivotal role in mobilising support, demonstrating the value of using municipal platforms to promote renewable energy projects.

Strategic partnerships with NGOs like EnEffect further boosted the project’s visibility, showcasing how collaborations can amplify the impact of energy initiatives. By ensuring transparency and fostering a sense of collective ownership, Gabrovo has set a benchmark for other municipalities aiming to embrace renewable energy.

Croatia: ZEZ Sun’s community-driven success

Croatia’s ZEZ Sun projects demonstrate the power of collective action in advancing renewable energy. One of the first projects, located in Križevci, is a community-owned solar plant. With a capacity of 200 kW, it was funded through a 10-day crowdfunding campaign involving 127 investors.

ZEZ Sun highlights the potential for citizen-led renewable energy initiatives, offering financial returns to participants while reducing carbon footprints. However, regulatory and administrative barriers remain a challenge. Simplifying legislative processes and introducing targeted subsidies could enhance the scalability of such projects in the future.

Public-private alliances have played a crucial role in ZEZ Sun’s success. The involvement of local government and businesses underscores the importance of partnerships in fostering sustainable energy transitions. By streamlining procedures and enhancing financial incentives, Croatia could replicate ZEZ Sun’s model across the nation.

During the SunSharing project, various initiatives worked on establishing CEC, through which three CEC emerged and were registered in 2024: My Energy Community, DVD Spickovina and The Energy Community of Northern Adriatic. The engagement of those communites, acting together with the Forum of energy communities in Croatia, continues in order to help the Government in formulating a supporting and enabling legal framework for energy communities in Croatia.

Greece: Minoan Energy’s social and economic impact

Energy community Minoan Energy was established in Crete in 2019 and it is a great example of how energy communities can transform local economies and societies. Starting with 38 members, it has grown to over 1,000 participants, including individuals, municipalities, and small businesses. The community operates two PV systems under virtual net metering, covering the energy needs of nearly 400 members.

Beyond providing renewable energy, Minoan Energy has championed social inclusion by covering electricity costs for vulnerable families, including those affected by natural disasters like earthquakes. The cooperative’s financial model encourages participation, allowing members to invest in shares starting at €100, fostering a sense of collective ownership.

The cooperative’s involvement in European research projects like „Clean Energy for EU Islands“ has propelled innovation in renewable energy technologies. Its collaboration with academic institutions, local governments, and international organisations showcases the potential of synergies in advancing sustainable energy solutions.

North Macedonia: CDI Macedonia is showing the way

Despite legislative hurdles, North Macedonia has seen pioneering efforts in energy community development, led by CDI Macedonia in the municipality of Brvenica. Formed in 2023, this association installed a 12 kW rooftop PV system for self-consumption under a net-metering scheme.

Although not formally registered as an energy community (cooperative) due to the lack of legislation at the time, CDI Macedonia has laid the groundwork for future initiatives by creating a network of energy communities. This network facilitates knowledge sharing and supports the democratisation of energy production.

Key recommendations from CDI Macedonia include establishing a robust legal framework to define energy communities and simplify their registration. Additionally, fostering inclusivity through tailored co-investment schemes for underserved groups and promoting regional cooperation could accelerate the adoption of renewable energy across the country.

Common themes and lessons for the region

1. Legal frameworks and simplified processes

A recurring barrier across these countries is the lack of comprehensive legal frameworks to support energy communities. Clear regulations that define their scope and simplify administrative procedures are crucial. North Macedonia and Croatia, for instance, need to align national laws with EU directives to unlock the full potential of energy communities.

2. Financial incentives and accessibility

Tailored financial mechanisms, such as subsidies, tax incentives, and crowdfunding platforms, are vital for engaging citizens and small businesses. Bulgaria’s Gabrovo project demonstrates the effectiveness of localised crowdfunding, while ZEZ Sun highlights the need for structured financial roadmaps.

3. Social inclusion and community engagement

Energy communities thrive when they address local needs and foster inclusivity. Minoan Energy’s support for vulnerable populations and Gabrovo’s focus on local investors illustrate how social impact can drive participation.

4. Knowledge sharing and regional cooperation

Sharing best practices and fostering collaboration across borders can accelerate the growth of energy communities. CDI Macedonia’s network model offers a blueprint for regional cooperation, promoting peer learning and joint advocacy.

Vision for the greener future

By addressing legislative gaps, enhancing financial accessibility, and fostering social inclusion, countries in Southern Europe can harness the power of renewable energy to build resilient and empowered communities.

This journey is not without its challenges, but the examples set by Greece, North Macedonia, Croatia, and Bulgaria offer a roadmap for success. As these nations continue to innovate and collaborate, they pave the way for a greener and more equitable energy future.

To learn more on the Lessons Learnt from the SunSharing project, download the SunSharing Lessons Learnt Report.

Major achievements during the project

A priority in the project was working directly with municipalities to develop building renovation passports (BRPs) as well as understand the policy landscape around building renovations on the EU level. Municipalities, together with experts on energy efficiency, (the financial landscape around renovations), and energy auditors, were given the setting to create sustainable long-term plans for their building stock.

• EU policy guidebooks have been published in 4 languages (English, Romanian, Slovakian, and Bulgarian), and were presented to a broader audience during a Q&A webinar that was also translated into Bulgarian, Romanian, and Slovak. Lessons learnt from the guidebook and from developing and implementing BRPs have been shared with stakeholders from Serbia and Slovakia during a second knowledge exchange webinar. In addition, the Renocally team facilitated a workshop at the Annual EUKI conference in 2024 and presented project outcomes at external webinars on related/similar European projects.
• Development of 20 BRPs on a variety of buildings, including public buildings and schools.
• Technical and financial masterclasses held in 10 municipalities across Romania and Bulgaria, have allowed for capacity building amongst municipalities on the technical aspects and the financial aspects of implementing BRPs, including access to funding at EU and national level and public-private financing options.
• Financial strategies were developed for five municipalities in Romania, and five municipalities in Bulgaria that will help them keep their efforts in achieving climate neutrality for their building stock.
• Memorandum of Agreement signed with various municipalities across Romania, Bulgaria, and Slovakia, agreeing to make Building Renovation Passports a political priority.
• Townhall meetings, webinars, roundtables, and conferences held in each of the pilot countries, reaching and connecting multiple key stakeholders.

Challenges

Building renovations come with several challenges, especially for countries in Central and Eastern Europe, where municipalities’ budgets and national funds for renovations are smaller. Apart from financial constraints, other challenges exist when implementing BRPs:

1. Lack of expertise among energy auditors and one-stop shops to provide information to building owners and professionals.
2. Lack of updated building inventories, including energy classifications, to allow defining renovation strategies at local level.
3. Lacking technical documentation that complicates developing BRPs.
4. Unfavourable market structures with high capital and production costs for energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies.
5. Unstable regulatory environment on a national level that create uncertainty and hinder long-term investments in building renovations.
6. Limited financial resources, especially for small municipalities with little budget and few resources to apply for funding or secure private financing.

Lessons Learnt

Municipalities that took part in Renocally agree that there is a need to have a better understanding of EU policies.  This demand makes the Renocally guidebook more pertinent and relevant than ever. The successful attendance at events organised by the project on EU policy developments is proof of the interest in this topic and the added value that Renocally has brought.

1. Implementing BRPs can help municipalities renovate buildings to achieve their long-term climate goals.
2. Achieving high energy performance levels on buildings that have been renovated without a BRP will be more challenging and expensive.
3. Building renovation steps can be tailored:

• Aligning with intermediary and long-term goals of a municipality.
• In tandem with other energy initiatives in a municipality (e.g., energy communities/cooperatives). and schools.
• Based on the condition of existing building and their renovation need.
• Phasing and prioritising the building stock, for example by targeting the worst performing buildings first to achieve the highest energy savings.
• Based on available financial resources.

Moving Forward

While the project has come to an end, the real work on the ground has just started. To keep up the momentum leading to a sustained change in the building stock in each municipality, whether part of the project or those just starting on their journey, Renocally recommends:

1. Establishing one contact person in the administration to enable smooth data exchange between municipalities, building owners, and energy auditors.
2. Involving professional energy auditors to develop BRPs to ensure that they are developed within the legal framework and follow the right methodology.
3. Considering both the energy savings and positive non-energy outcomes (e.g., health), in the BRP, unlocking the multiple benefits that come from building renovations.
4. Invest in continuous capacity building and knowledge exchange between key stakeholders, such as energy auditors, financial experts, municipal staff, policymakers, energy agencies, and citizens.
5. Integrate both top-down and bottom-up financial approaches to secure financing for BRPs (and renovation projects) – this includes looking at existing legal frameworks, as well as establishing financial thresholds for different stakeholders and creating public-private partnerships to leverage external funding.

We thank everyone who participated in our project events, followed us on social media, read our reports, and implemented the work on the ground. Together, we can achieve real change and create buildings that do not harm the planet and are healthy for the people living and using them.