Cooperation among different regional organizations is nothing new in the Western Balkans. However, at the transboundary level, partnerships must increase for an effective climate policy. The Climate Bridges project wants to show how much is already being done and introduce the many faces of climate protection in Southeastern Europe to the broader public. Especially since climate change does not stop at borders, sharing ideas and experiences across borders is needed to mitigate its effects and advance the transition to sustainability.

Participating in the contest is easy. Everyone that has implemented or is implementing a climate or sustainability-related project in Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Serbia or Albania can apply. Applications can be submitted through the online form on the Climate Bridges website by 30 June. In September, an international jury of organizations from the Alpine region and the Western Balkans will award the best projects in five categories (decarbonization, circular economy, biodiversity and nature protection, sustainable agriculture and depollution). In addition to the promotion of the awarded projects, networking opportunities and transboundary knowledge sharing, the winners will also receive a prize money of 1’000 euros. The first climate champion of Southeastern Europe will be announced in November 2022 in Sarajevo. All applicants will be invited to the event that will also offer workshops and trainings.