Sustainable development in Slovenia – prof. Mihălțeanu Cristina
Located in the heart of Europe, the country of Slovenia represents a positive example of a nation-wide awarness regarding the importance of nature. Over the course of recent years, such a mindset has put Slovenia amongst the leading countries in terms of sustainability. However, `the green mentality` has not been a pure coincidence, but rather an outcome of the country`s proactive policies that have been implemented to protect Slovenia`s high biodiversity and to educate its citizens. These policies have helped Slovenia become one of the most sustainable countries in Europe and an example for the rest the world.
Whilist covering less than 0,004% pof the planet`s surface, this country accomodates around 1% of the world`s biodiversisy, including more than 2% of all terestrial species. With this statistic, Slovenia has the highest concentration of animal and plant species per square kilometre in the world.
Sustainable development has been defined as development that meets the needs of the present without compromissing the ability of future generation to meet their own needs and Slovenia remains strongly committed to the protection of the environment towards building an inclusive, sustainable and resilient future for people and the country. In 2015 it has been adopted the Framework Programme for a transition to a `green economy`which integrates environmental and economic goals into sustainable development. It includes actions in many areas:
- It encompasses managing natural resources sustainably (water,waste, physical space, protected areas of nature, forests and wood
- Advancing green economy with a smart strategy
- Increasing green jobs along with a set of skills and knowledge necessary for the jobs
- Realising sustainable urban development and developing a sustainable farming practices in agriculture
Transitioning from the current economy to a green economy has been increasingly significant for a more sustainable future for the country. The transition particulary requires a change of the current paterns of production and consumption wich need to be more sustainable and greener. To achieve sustainable development providing support and economic incentives that can lead to the development of environmentally friendly technologies and inovations is also needed.
Considering the green mindset of its citizens, it should come as no surprise that Slovenia has been considered one of the most sustainable countries in the world. In 2017, it successfully completed 96 out of 100 detailed sustainability indicators regarding environment and climate, culture and biodiversity.
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