Climate change is getting more attention than ever in global business and politics.  In fact, both the EU and the UN have listed climate change as one of the top issues that will need to be addressed in the 21st century.  Hence, many entities, both in the private and public sectors, are looking to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals that were set in 2015, putting environmental law in focus, too.  Thus, the European Green Deal, which aims to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050, as well as the Paris Agreement, mark strong commitment from states to act on climate change.  Furthermore, some of the world’s largest companies, including those in the automotive and energy industries, have promised to comply with the Paris Agreement and become carbon-neutral before the second half of the century.

Environmental law is becoming an ever more relevant field that is expected to continue developing rapidly.  Specifically, the EU’s efforts in environmental law mark some of the most comprehensive legal work done on climate change.  The bloc insists on taking strong climate action and addressing issues such as water and air quality, waste management, nature protection, and industrial pollution.  As a part of the EU action on the issue and in line with its Stabilization and Association Agreement, Serbia adopted its own Climate Change Act which focuses on the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Meanwhile, Montenegro integrated climate change in its National Strategy on Sustainable Development.

We at Gecić Law have advised on environmental matters, tracking legal developments within the EU and in the Western Balkans.  Our lawyers provided expert advice on the compliance of Serbia’s Climate Change Act with EU environmental law. Furthermore, we analyzed potential environmental issues impacting our clients’ businesses, including a potential carbon border adjustment mechanism to avoid the carbon leakage issue as part of the EU’s plans to become carbon-neutral by 2050 and potential environmental targets for Serbia, as a part of the Energy Community.

Our Environmental Law team specializes in providing advice and support to clients on:

  • Assessment and management of environmental liabilities in corporate and financial transactions
  • Environmental risk assessment
  • Assistance in drafting corporate environmental policies
  • Renewable energy
  • Carbon off-setting
  • Waste and pollution