The Role of Research Networking and Education in Driving the Just Green Transition in the Western Balkans and Beyond
The urgency of addressing climate change and achieving a sustainable Green Transition requires a multidimensional approach, within which a crucial role shall be played by research networking and education activities. These two pillars are instrumental in effectively understanding, equipping, and uniting stakeholders to tackle environmental challenges.
In particular, research networking plays a critical role in deciphering the complex environmental challenges unique to different regions. Tailored, evidence-based insights ensure that solutions are practical and context-specific. By collaboratively delving into local ecosystems, socio-economic dynamics, and climate vulnerabilities, research networking provides the foundation for targeted and impactful action plans.
Networking among researchers located in different contexts amplifies the efforts by fostering partnerships and facilitating the exchange of ideas, innovations, and resources. Whereas, networks of governments, institutions, and civil society organisations are crucial for pooling expertise and ensuring that sustainability efforts have both local relevance and global impact. These partnerships also build resilience, as shared knowledge and mutual support strengthen collective capacities to adapt to an evolving climate landscape.
Equally vital are educational activities that serve as a means of transferring the results achieved through research, in so doing they empower individuals and communities with the knowledge and skills needed to implement sustainable practices. From fostering environmental awareness to building technical expertise in green technologies, education is the key to creating a society capable of advocating for and championing a Just Green Transition.
The GreenFORCE Horizon Project embodies these principles, striving to lead by example. Our initiatives focus on advancing research that addresses specific Just Green Transition issues, creating educational opportunities for students (co-tutoring) and researchers (through visiting and secondments) that build green skills, and cultivating long-lasting partnerships. Through these efforts, we aim to contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future, demonstrating that integrating research, education, and collaboration is essential for a successful green transition. By championing these pillars, we work toward a sustainable future and inspire others to join us on this critical journey.
