Belgrade, Serbia

Currently, Belgrade has approximately 16% of its territory covered by forests and 15% by green spaces, which contribute to its ecological diversity and urban resilience. Despite these natural assets, the city faces challenges such as the lack of a robust legal framework for renaturing infrastructure, insufficient implementation of planning regulations, and the need for stricter enforcement and inspection of green initiatives.

Belgrade has taken significant steps to improve its urban green infrastructure:

• Green City Action Plan for City of Belgrade: Adopted in 2019, this plan reserves all green spaces for urban forests, parks, squares and tree-lined areas, ensuring future greening opportunities.
• Development strategies: The city is actively developing a Green Infrastructure Strategy and an Urban Forest Development Programme (2025-2035) to further enrich its natural landscape and improve environmental quality.

Belgrade joined the UNP+ project to strengthen its green plans and biodiversity initiatives. The city aims to raise public awareness of the importance of biodiversity while improving and expanding its natural spaces.

In collaboration with the City of Belgrade, the ICLEI World Secretariat, ICLEI Europe and local partners, the UrbanByNature's South Eastern Europe Hub (UbN SEE) was launched in 2022. This initiative focuses on nature-based solutions and urban climate adaptation and involves more than 20 cities from the region.

Belgrade invites residents and organisations to participate in shaping its green future:

• Support green initiatives: Stay informed about local projects and get involved in community-led efforts to improve green spaces.
• Join the conversation: Work with local authorities and organisations to advocate for sustainable urban development practices.