Serbia has implemented air quality improvement projects in nine local governments, according to Irena Vujović, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Environmental Protection. The initiatives were developed through the work of the Working Group for Systematic Solving of Air Protection Issues. Vujović said the measures are already producing positive effects on air quality in the participating regions.
Cities covered by the air quality initiatives
The projects were carried out in Belgrade, Niš, Smederevo, Užice, Kosjerić, Zaječar, Novi Pazar, Kragujevac and Valjevo. Vujović presented the implementation as completed across these local governments. The announcement linked the local rollout to ongoing efforts under the air protection working group.
Boiler room replacements since 2021
Vujović said that since 2021 her ministry has replaced 169 boiler rooms in 76 local governments as part of air quality improvement activities. She added that the work involved replacing outdated and polluting boilers with more environmentally friendly alternatives. The programme was carried out with collaboration among various ministries and UNDP partners.
The replacement activities targeted key public facilities including schools, kindergartens, university buildings, cultural centers and other public institutions. Vujović described these upgrades as particularly relevant for cities and municipalities that had previously recorded emissions above acceptable limits. The changes focused on heating infrastructure used in public services.
Solid fuel boiler capacity and 2025 funding
According to Vujović, the solid fuel boilers being replaced ranged from 150 kilowatts to 5.4 megawatts. She said the government is using these replacements to improve air quality and support residents’ well-being. The emphasis was placed on areas where emissions have been highest.
Vujović also stated that substantial funds have been secured for additional boiler replacements in heating plants and public institutions in 2025. She said the 2025 focus will be on regions with the highest emission levels. Vujović concluded that collective efforts are required to achieve better air quality.