Air Pollution Knows No Borders: Serbia Part of Global Observance

Belgrade, 6 October 2025 – Almost 99 percent of the world’s population breathes polluted air, making air pollution one of the greatest environmental challenges of our time. It further amplifies the negative effects of climate change, slows economic growth, and reduces agricultural productivity.

To mark the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, representatives of the Government of Serbia, the European Union, and the United Nations gathered today at the UN House in Belgrade under this year’s global theme: “Racing for Air. Every Breath Matters.” Although globally observed on 7 September, the Day was marked in Serbia on 6 October to highlight national and local initiatives and to strengthen cooperation in improving air quality.

“Clean air should never be a privilege – it is a right for everyone. Air pollution directly affects our health and well-being, yet it is preventable. The solutions are within reach: cleaner energy, better waste management, greener cities, and more sustainable transport. Each step we take makes a real difference – for our health, for our communities, for our economy, and for the future of our children,” said Matilde Mordt, UN Resident Coordinator in Serbia.

Air quality remains a serious challenge in Serbia and across the Western Balkans. Many cities still record pollution levels above European and international standards, especially during the winter months when heating and traffic create visible smog. Sara Pavkov, Minister of Environmental Protection, emphasized that Serbia is not immune to this global challenge, and that improving air quality remains one of the Government’s key priorities.

“In cooperation with the EU, through the IPA 2020 programme, modern equipment for improving air quality monitoring has been procured and delivered to 41 locations in 28 municipalities. At the same time, a new Law on Air Protection was adopted this year, and we have continued implementing measures for cleaner air. Since 2021, around 1.8 billion dinars have been invested through public calls for boiler replacement, resulting in nearly 200 boiler systems being replaced. In addition, a €50 million credit line from European partners has been secured for investments in local governments where higher emissions have been recorded. Only through cooperation, solidarity, and joint action can we make a meaningful contribution to improving air quality,” said Minister Pavkov.

Serbia has already taken important steps, including the adoption of its new national climate plan, NDC 3.0 (Nationally Determined Contribution 3.0), through which it has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than 40 percent by 2035 compared to 1990 levels. This plan is not only a climate target but also a roadmap for development and investment, aimed at aligning Serbia with EU standards and its goal of EU membership.

“Clean air is not a luxury but a fundamental human right and the foundation of a healthy society. The European Union stands firmly with Serbia and its citizens in addressing this challenge. Through the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, we strongly support reforms and investments aimed at reducing pollution, ensuring cleaner energy, and developing sustainable transport,” said Andreas von Beckerath, Head of the EU Delegation and Ambassador of the European Union to Serbia.

The event also featured contributions from UNEP, UNDP, UNICEF, WHO, and UNECE, covering topics such as sustainable mobility, child health, public health, and regional cooperation. Participants emphasized that air pollution knows no borders and that only through joint investments of time, resources, and effort can we secure clean air for all.

The United Nations system in Serbia reaffirmed its commitment to supporting these efforts, including through the mobilization of innovative financing and the development of partnerships that can turn commitments into cleaner air and healthier lives.