Outlook on Climate Change Adaptation in the Western Balkan Mountains

of energy is considered more of a climate change mitigation measure, energy efficiency can also be seen as an adaptation measure since it contributes to the reduction of energy demand and energy consumption. Reduced energy consumption can also be observed through the indicator of lower energy intensity. The energy sector is one of the most polluting sectors of the regional economy and is a major source of GHG emissions. Energy policies related to climate change focus mainly on mitigation. All Western Balkan countries have energy development strategies at the national level, with the exception of BiH which has adopted them at the level of its two entities: the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) and Republika Srpska (RS). Some Western Balkan countries have adopted further strategies, such as the Heating Strategy in Kosovo, 1 the National Strategy for Energy Efficiency and the Strategy for Utilization of Renewable Energy Sources in FYR Macedonia, and the Energy Efficiency Strategy in Montenegro. Albania, BiH, FYR Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Kosovo 1 are Contracting Parties of the Energy Community, established in October 2005 by the

Perućac lake and dam, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Policy Evaluation Matrix

Mainstreaming of adaptation goals and targets

ENERGY

1- low or not considered at all

2- low or mentioned at least

3- somewhat integrated/present

4- high or fully integrated

Adaptation targets

Participation

4

Bosnia and Herzegovina

FYR Macedonia

3

Regional (Joint responses)

2

Albania

Croatia

Serbia

Kosovo*

Montenegro

1

Availability of implementation tools

Monitoring and Evaluation

Regional/transboundary adaptation considerations

Mountain adaptation considerations

*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/99 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence.

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