The support of the European Union and the importance of cooperation in the implementation of environmental standards were the focus of the celebration of 25 years of the existence and work of the NGO Green Home. This anniversary, which was marked by a festive event, represents a significant milestone for the organization that has been dedicated to environmental protection, the conservation of natural resources and the achievement of sustainable development since its foundation.
Azra Vuković, Executive Director of the NGO Green Home, emphasized that this organization is proud to record many successes during its existence, including the campaign for the preservation of the Tara River, which resulted in the adoption of the Declaration on the Protection of the Tara River, and the fight to stop the construction of hydroelectric power plants on the Morača River. Vuković also highlighted the importance of the initiative to establish new protected areas in Montenegro, such as the Prokletije National Park, the Cijevna River Canyon nature monument and the Kačić Nature Park.
“During these activities, we managed to mobilize a large number of nature lovers, non-governmental organizations, colleagues from the region, as well as UN institutions and the European Commission, and ultimately succeeded in what initially seemed like an impossible mission: the preservation of Tara and Morača, as well as the establishment of new protected areas. Our mission is to expand the network of friends of the environment and strengthen ourselves. I would especially highlight the fact that we are the initiators of the Coalition 27, which brings together 18 organizations in Montenegro and is engaged in monitoring the fulfillment of Montenegro’s obligations under Chapter 27 in the European integration process,” said Vuković.
Vuković appealed to all interested parties to join forces to accelerate the implementation of European environmental standards, emphasizing the importance of speeding up the implementation of laws and protecting natural resources.
“Today, the issue of environmental protection is more relevant than ever. Today, environmental protection is not viewed only through the prism of nature conservation, but also as an issue of human health, the rule of law, democracy, the economy, the protection of human and minority rights, but also the fight against corruption and organized crime. If we add to this that Chapter 27 is one of the most demanding in the process of accession to the European Union, then it becomes clear how important this area is for Montenegro and its future,” said Vuković.
The NGO Green Home, she reminded, is firmly committed to the implementation of European environmental standards.
”The implementation of these standards will result in cleaner air in our cities, which is at an alarmingly high level of pollution; our rivers, lakes and seas, where today wastewater is discharged without prior treatment; the food we produce and consume will be healthier and ultimately, we will have a healthier environment and the preservation of human health”, concluded the director of the Green Home.
Riccardo Serri, Deputy Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro, expressed his satisfaction with the cooperation with the NGO Green Home, praising the achievements of this organization and its contribution to nature protection. Seri recalled the importance of Chapter 27 in the EU accession process and emphasized that environmental protection is a key issue for the future of Montenegro.
“25 years of the existence of this organization is a truly significant anniversary. Green Home has laid the foundation for better protection of natural resources in Montenegro with its work. Although much has been achieved, challenges lie ahead, especially in the context of the implementation of European climate and environmental standards. The European Union is committed to this and together with our partners in the field of environmental protection, we are working to raise awareness and progress in environmental protection,” said Serri.
“It is always an honor to attend events like this, and the celebration of the 25th anniversary is especially important. This organization is a true friend, not only for us as the European Union, but also for Montenegro itself,” he added.
Serri notes that Chapter 27 is crucial.
“Negotiations are ongoing. Now the main goal, the main focus when it comes to the environment is to continue the negotiations and try to make progress in this regard. This is a very, very challenging area, because you have to have a cleaner country to meet, say, the requirements of climate change. Investments, compliance, new legislation, all of that needs to be done. And I think the government needs to focus on this area, because there are a lot of things that are still lagging behind,” concluded the Deputy Head of the European Union Delegation to Montenegro.
The celebration of the 25th anniversary of the NGO Green Home symbolizes continued commitment to environmental protection and cooperation on European and international initiatives, with a common goal – creating a healthier and more sustainable living environment for future generations.
The celebration of the 25th anniversary of Green Home brought together numerous representatives of NGOs, state and international institutions, ambassadors and representatives of the diplomatic corps, universities and friends of environmental protection.
