18 December 2015: The UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) launched a programme to improve the environmental performance and resource productivity of businesses and other organizations in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The National Cleaner Production Programme is expected to contribute towards achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 (Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation), which relates to inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID).

The three-year programme will generate employment and income by implementing resource-efficient and cleaner production strategies. It is also expected to help Bosnia and Herzegovina comply with aspects of its pre-accession pact with the EU.

A launch event held in Sarajevo on 18 December 2015 showcased activities of National Cleaner Production Centres (NCPCs) in southeastern Europe, including from Serbia and Macedonia. NCPCs aim to raise awareness of the benefits of resource-efficient and cleaner production (RECP), such as efficient use of energy, water and other natural resources, minimization of emissions and wastes, and reduction of risks from the use and disposal of chemicals. NCPCs also: demonstrate RECP’s environmental, financial and social benefits through demonstration projects and in-plant assessments; support the transfer of environmental sound technologies to industries, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and play a role in providing policy advice to governments on RECP.

The Government of Slovenia is funding the programme. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations will serve as UNIDO’s project counterpart, with a consortium of universities and companies contributing to implementation. [UNIDO Press Release] [UNIDO Website on NCPCs]