Total greenhouse gas emissions (without LULUCF)

Serbia has set ambitious emission reduction targets, but success hinges on policy implementation and investment

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (excluding the land use, land use change and forestry (LULUCF) sector) for Serbia have decreased by 24.8% since 1990 (see graph). Serbia aims to cut GHG emissions by 33.3% by 2030, with an ambitious target of 40.3% including the LULUCF sector. This is outlined in the updated nationally determined contribution under the Paris agreement, and in Serbia’s low-carbon development strategy and integrated national energy and climate plan. Key measures include shifting to renewable energy sources, boosting energy efficiency and reducing emissions in electricity and heat generation. Serbia has also put in place a climate change adaptation programme, with 25 priority adaptation measures identified. International funding was secured to achieve these goals, such as a USD 1 million project supported by Japan, focused on implementing the Sofia Declaration on the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans. While the targets are ambitious, their achievement depends on the effective implementation of these plans, securing further investment and navigating potential challenges in transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Civil-society initiatives and public awareness campaigns will also play a crucial role in driving progress and ensuring a successful transition.