The Government of Serbia, acting on the proposal of the Ministry of Environmental Protection, has adopted the Waste Prevention Plan for the Republic of Serbia. The document is described as one of the key strategic instruments in the waste prevention policy area. It is intended to support the development of green technologies, new industries, and job opportunities connected to recycling. It also covers product repair and sustainable design.
Framework for monitoring waste prevention goals
Minister of Environmental Protection Irena Vujović said that preventing waste generation supports more efficient environmental protection and better living conditions for citizens. She noted that adoption of the planning document creates a framework for tracking progress toward national waste prevention goals. The plan is linked to the Sustainable Development Goals under the 2030 Agenda. It sets objectives and priority areas for waste prevention and includes measures for implementation over the 2025–2030 period.
Vujović said that waste prevention encourages sustainable use of resources and reduces demand for raw materials and energy. She added that reducing waste generation can lower emissions of pollutants. According to her statement, it also supports more effective protection of land and water.
Links to circular economy and other waste planning documents
The minister said effective waste prevention can complement and strengthen other planning documents related to waste management. She also referred to alignment with the application of circular economy principles. The plan’s approach is presented as part of broader policy coordination in the waste sector.
Cleaner products, research and awareness activities
Vujović highlighted research and development in cleaner products and technologies that generate less waste. She cited cleaner production, more efficient resource use, and sustainable material management as factors for implementing waste prevention strategies. She said these strategies need implementation at all levels, from local to national.
She also pointed to activities aimed at raising awareness among citizens, entrepreneurs, legal entities, and local governments. The focus is on how people can live sustainably through eco-friendly behaviors across society. Vujović said these steps are intended to benefit the wider community.