Belgrade, July 29, 2025 – Efforts to adapt to changing climate conditions continued with a workshop held for representatives of relevant institutions. At the kick-off workshop for the second phase of the NAP, representatives of key institutions - including the Republic Hydrometeorological Service, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, the Republic Geodetic Authority, and others — emphasized the importance of continuous and coordinated collaboration at all levels for the effective implementation of adaptation measures to meet the challenges of climate change.

“It is not only scientific data that warns us about the urgency of adapting to climate change - it’s reality itself. The ten hottest years on record in Serbia have all occurred since 2000, and extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, and droughts are becoming more frequent. The total estimated material damage caused by extreme weather between 2000 and 2024 amounts to as much as €10.45 billion. More than 70% of these losses were caused by droughts and high temperatures, followed by floods and wildfires,” said Sandra Lazić, Head of the Climate Change Department at the Ministry of Environmental Protection.

“All of this clearly shows how important it is for the economy and society to adapt to a changing climate - not only for economic growth but for the well-being of ordinary citizens and the environment,” said Tatjana Strahinjić Nikolić, Programme Analyst at UNDP.

In accordance with the Law on Climate Change, all competent institutions, including local governments, are obligated to regularly monitor the implementation of adaptation measures and the impact of climate change, and report their findings to the Ministry. This system has been established within the framework of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) for the period 2023–2030, with an Action Plan for 2023–2026. The NAP provides extensive analyses of past climate trends and future projections, as well as sector-specific impact assessments, and defines 25 priority measures to increase resilience to climate challenges in areas such as agriculture, forestry, energy, urban development, biodiversity, infrastructure, and health. Reporting on implemented adaptation measures also includes data collection on extreme weather events and their consequences, enabling better monitoring and improvement of adaptation planning.

To support public administration, local governments, and other relevant stakeholders in planning and implementing adaptation measures, a Digital Climate Atlas has been developed. It provides data on current climate conditions and projected changes at both local and national levels, supporting evidence-based decision-making - a key element in the successful implementation of adaptation measures and strengthening climate resilience in Serbia.

The second phase of this project (2025–2027) focuses on improving recognition of droughts as a multidimensional climate threat, enhancing methodologies for disaster risk and damage assessments, zoning of fruit and vineyard areas, and designing solutions that address the real needs of citizens, especially those most affected by climate change. Improvements in access to funding for these measures are also planned, including sources from the private sector.

This activity is part of the project Enhancing Medium- and Long-Term Planning of Adaptation Measures to Changing Climate Conditions in the Republic of Serbia (NAP II), implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in cooperation with the Ministry of Environmental Protection, and funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF).