The aim of the final conference was to present the key results of the project, as well as to open an expert dialogue on the sustainable transformation of industry and the development of green value chains in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Within the planned timeframe, the GIIA project developed and validated the first practical framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina for assessing the readiness of green value chains, aligned with EU requirements, and piloted it under real industrial conditions in cooperation with Heidelberg Materials Cement BiH. The project’s added value is further confirmed by concrete results – 118 innovators were mobilized, the final conference gathered more than 100 participants, and three structured solution concepts with potential for further investment and commercialization were developed.
Prof. Dr. Nedim Čelebić, Project Coordinator:
“When we connect knowledge, young innovators, and industry, the green transition becomes a real development opportunity. GIIA has demonstrated that collaboration among these actors can accelerate the strengthening of green value chains and pave the way toward a more competitive and resilient industry in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”
The program began with opening remarks by representatives of institutions and international organizations, followed by presentations of the GIIA project results, including concrete examples of the development of green value chains in the construction materials industry. Special focus was placed on youth innovation, through the presentation of winning solutions from the GIIA Hackathon.
Renaud Meyer, UNDP Resident Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina:
“With the support of international development organizations, and through the knowledge of the academic community and the leadership of industry, the green transition is becoming a tangible development opportunity for Bosnia and Herzegovina. This initiative clearly demonstrates how cooperation between SSST, Heidelberg Materials Cement BiH, and the Chamber of Economy of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina can accelerate economic transformation, strengthen green value chains, and foster innovation. In this way, we are building a more competitive, resilient, and sustainable economy, aligned with European standards and Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU aspirations. UNDP remains committed to supporting this transition by strengthening the role of youth, enhancing cooperation between academia and industry, and transferring and applying proven practices at a broader, systemic level.”
As part of the conference, a panel discussion was also held on the readiness of small and medium-sized enterprises to implement green value chains, where experts from various sectors exchanged experiences and provided insights into the challenges and opportunities of the green transition in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Jana K. Lolić Šindelková, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Bosnia and Herzegovina:
“I am pleased that we supported this event, which excellently connects students, the academic community, and industry. Through the Czech–UNDP Challenge Fund (Trust Fund), which runs until 2030, as well as other development cooperation programmes, we will continue to support innovation and development in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I believe that such initiatives create important opportunities for young people, who play a key role in the country’s future development and competitiveness. I am especially glad to see the creativity and engagement of young people at events like this. We remain committed to strengthening cooperation and supporting initiatives that deliver concrete results.”
The conference once again confirmed the importance of cross-sector collaboration, innovation, and sustainable approaches in building a more competitive and resilient economy.
