Time to Tackle Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Toxic Air Crisis

Bosnia (Washington Insider Magazine) – Bosnia and Herzegovina suffers from one of the worst air pollution levels globally, with dangerous PM2.5 readings frequently exceeding WHO safety limits. Coal and wood burning for heat and electricity are the primary causes, leading to thousands of premature deaths annually.

Key Issues:

• Severe Health Risks: Air pollution contributes to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, especially affecting children and the elderly.
• Government Inaction: Despite pledges to reduce emissions, authorities extended coal plant operations and failed to cancel new coal projects.
• Legal Violations: The Energy Community Treaty required coal plant closures by 2022, but the government delayed compliance due to energy security concerns.
• Clean Energy Potential: Bosnia and Herzegovina has abundant renewable energy resources but lags in transitioning away from coal.

Call to Action:

The government should prioritize investment in clean energy to protect public health, combat climate change, and create sustainable job opportunities.