Empowering the growth of carbon markets across the Western Balkans.

The Western Balkans Carbon Initiative, WBCI, is a pioneering educational project dedicated to accelerating climate action in the Western Balkans by championing the growth of voluntary carbon markets and paving the way for robust, high-integrity compliance mechanisms across the region.

We help raise awareness of carbon projects across the region, helping communities and stakeholders better understand their significance and impact.

countries in the Western Balkans

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case studies on carbon projects in the region

regional policy frameworks explained

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The Western Balkans are in the process of transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy, offering lucrative opportunities for carbon project developers.

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"As one of the largest renewable energy developments in the region under Team Europe, this project will help Kosovo achieve its energy security and renewable energy goals."

Kyriacos Kakouris

Vice-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB)

By planting 9,302 trees across an area previously affected by extreme environmental events, this project aims to enhance the region’s carbon stock.

Displacing 174,000 tons of C02 annually by replacing the energy that would have otherwise been generated by burning coal.

230,000

people expected to be served until 2045 with the help of improved wastewater management system, ensuring that the infrastructure will meet future demands as the city of Podgorica grows.

The vision of the Western Balkans Carbon Initiative for increased carbon projects in the Western Balkans can be explained in three steps:

Leverage natural resources for carbon projects.

Leverage

The Western Balkans possess abundant natural resources, including vast forests, rich biodiversity, and extensive agricultural lands. The organization aims to harness these resources by implementing projects in reforestation, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy, which are well-suited for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Engage in carbon finance mechanisms.

Participate

By participating in carbon finance mechanisms and voluntary carbon markets, the region can attract international investments. These mechanisms allow the Western Balkans to trade carbon credits, generating the necessary funds to support and expand sustainable development projects.

Unlock resources for sustainable development.

Trade

Through successful carbon trading and project-based carbon financing, the Western Balkans can unlock critical financial resources. These resources will be reinvested into further sustainable initiatives, transforming the region into a model of environmental and economic progress, while contributing to global climate goals.

Explore the policies shaping the region

Explore the key policies

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Ready to make a real difference?

Let's discuss how you can partner up with the Western Balkans Carbon Initiative, WBCI, to promote scaling voluntary carbon markets across the Western Balkans and to support the implementation of compliance markets.

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