What does environmental protection look like in practice, in the buildings we use, the waste we generate, and the cities we live in?

Building a fair and inclusive climate and energy transition for all communities

A key impact of GIZ’s work in Kosovo is the reduction of energy consumption in buildings and the increase of energy production from renewable sources for self consumption, contributing directly to reducing environmental pollution.

On behalf of the German government, we have supported national partners by providing technical assistance in defining technical criteria and implementation modalities for financing programmes for energy efficiency and renewable energy. At the same time, support has been provided to improve the legal framework related to energy efficiency and energy performance in buildings. The Danish government has now also become part of these efforts, further advancing investments in energy efficiency and renewable sources for self-consumption.

More broadly, GIZ has continuously supported Kosovo in advancing climate action, particularly in mitigation and adaptation measures. This includes contributing to the drafting of key policy documents such as the National Energy and Climate Plan, as well as other strategic and legal frameworks at both central and local levels.
Efforts have also focused on strengthening climate governance structures, including support to the Secretariat of the National Climate Change Council and the establishment of a Scientific Advisory Board to ensure data-driven policymaking.

In addition, the Climate and Energy Transition Partnership between Germany and Kosovo provides the strategic framework for advancing a more ambitious and coordinated transition. Building on this, GIZ contributes in supporting through high-level policy dialogue, support for renewable energy development and grid integration, and strengthened institutional coordination. It also enhances Kosovo’s participation in international climate processes and access to climate finance, while promoting public awareness and climate literacy through engagement with institutions, media, and youth.

Kosovo is also part of broader regional climate adaptation efforts supported by the German Government across all six Western Balkan countries. With technical expertise and in close cooperation with regional, national and local partners, these efforts aim to develop and implement climate adaptation measures in line with the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.

As one of Europe’s climate change hotspots, the region faces increasing climate risks while still strengthening its capacity to respond effectively. In this context, regional cooperation plays a key role. By integrating climate adaptation into sectors such as agriculture and urban transport, and by supporting both policy development and practical solutions on the ground, these initiatives contribute to building climate resilience across borders.

The added value of this regional approach lies in creating a shared platform for learning, implementation, and the transfer of solutions, connecting institutions, experts, and local actors beyond national boundaries, and ensuring that climate action is coordinated, inclusive, and impactful.

Working with people and institutions to create greener, healthier, and more resilient future

Supported by German and Switzerland governments, our work in urban development focuses on improving the institutional and planning framework conditions for climate-sensitive and sustainable urban development, in line with EU requirements at national and local levels.

This includes support for legal frameworks revision, development of technical standards for climate-sensitive urban solutions, and capacity building of relevant institutions. Efforts also focus on strengthening urban planning systems and improving organizational structures within key institutions such as the Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning.

At the local level, municipalities are supported in developing gender-sensitive public space masterplans and conducting climate risk assessments. Building on these frameworks, GIZ supports the implementation of nature-based solutions demonstration projects in cities such as Gjakova/Đakovica, Gjilan/Gnjilane andPrizren.

These projects include the creation and improvement of urban green spaces and nature-based solutions, which contribute to climate adaptation, biodiversity protection and improved quality of life in cities.

Supporting circular economy practices that reduce waste and create local value

GIZ supports Kosovo in developing an integrated waste management system. This includes contributing to the development of strategic frameworks such as the Kosovo Integrated Waste Management Strategy, while also supporting its implementation through key measures such as the Law on Integrated Waste Management, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, the National Waste Prevention Programme and Single-Use Plastics Plan. These efforts strengthen the legal and institutional framework in line with EU standards and support Kosovo’s transition towards a circular economy.

At the local level, municipalities are supported in developing integrated inter-municipal waste management plans and improving cooperation between public and private actors. These efforts contribute to more efficient and sustainable waste management systems.

By providing technical expertise and supporting these frameworks, GIZ contributes to turning environmental objectives into practical solutions, highlighting that effective policy is the foundation for environmental protection and a greener Kosovo.

Embedding sustainability in everyday practice at ITP Prizren, Kosovo

One example of how sustainability is being put into practice can be seen at the Innovation and Training Park (ITP) in Prizren, where environmental responsibility is increasingly reflected in both daily operations and long-term planning. Efforts include expanding green spaces, planting trees, and promoting a clean, energy-conscious, and environmentally responsible environment for the community.

Beyond these measures, ITP fosters a broader culture of sustainability by encouraging environmentally responsible practices and supporting green innovation. Through ongoing improvements to public spaces, the promotion of sustainable mobility, and awareness-raising activities, ITP shows how sustainability can become a shared standard and an integral part of everyday life

Towards a sustainable future

Earth Day is a reminder that effective environmental protection requires both strong policies and practical implementation. Through its continued cooperation with institutions at national and local levels, we support the development of systems, frameworks, and solutions that contribute to a more sustainable, climate-resilient, and environmentally responsible future.