Towards Sustainable Cities: Addressing Urban Planning Deficiencies in Croatia, Serbia, and North Macedonia
5, September 2024
As cities in Croatia, Serbia, and North Macedonia continue to grow, they face a range of challenges that require urgent attention. Urbanization is happening rapidly, but the planning processes often fail to keep pace. Without proper coordination, cities are left with fragmented infrastructure, disjointed development, and a lack of focus on sustainability. These problems affect the environment but also the quality of life for residents, creating a pressing need for more thoughtful and integrated urban planning.
One of the key issues in the region is the shortage of green spaces. Public parks and recreational areas are important for maintaining air quality, promoting physical activity, and providing relief from the heat in densely populated areas. Yet, many cities are struggling with insufficient green areas, leaving residents with fewer opportunities for relaxation and social interaction. This lack of green space also contributes to the “urban heat island” effect, where city areas become significantly warmer than their rural surroundings, making urban living more uncomfortable, especially in the summer months.
Another pressing issue is the uncontrolled urban sprawl that has taken over in many parts of these countries. The rapid expansion of cities leads to inefficient use of land, endangerment on natural habitats, and the destruction of valuable biodiversity. Poorly managed growth also leaves cities vulnerable to natural disasters, such as floods or landslides, because crucial environmental buffers like forests and wetlands are eroded.
Furthermore, the regulatory frameworks governing urban planning in these countries are often weak or poorly enforced. This has allowed unchecked development and led to bad building standards, contributing to environmental degradation and unsafe living conditions.
Governments, local authorities, and policymakers must work together to tighten regulations, ensure that they are enforced, and prioritize sustainable practices in future developments.
There are, however, opportunities for change. Croatia, Serbia, and North Macedonia can draw inspiration from successful European Union and other initiatives that promote sustainability in urban areas. Many EU countries have implemented green practices such as efficient public transportation, the promotion of cycling, and the development of renewable energy sources, all of which can be adopted and adapted to the Balkan region’s needs. Moreover, cross-border collaboration can be a powerful tool for sharing knowledge and strategies for sustainable growth. By working together, countries in the region can provide resources and ideas, improving urban planning outcomes across national borders.
By aligning their urban planning policies with EU sustainability standards and fostering regional cooperation, Croatia, Serbia, and North Macedonia have the opportunity to transform their cities into vibrant, sustainable urban centers.
To explore how successful EU practices can be implemented to address the urban challenges faced by these countries, further research is required. Such analyses should aim to provide actionable recommendations to guide policymakers and urban planners in creating more sustainable and inclusive cities.
Authors: Antonio Grujevski, Dora Ćiković, Paula Bolfan, Hana Popović, Filip Ivanovski, Ivan Dominik Dragović, Kristina Miloradović
