Economically Ecological – Green is the New Black: We present to you the new special edition newsletter of eKapija

The eKapija business portal published the thematic newsletter "Economically Ecological – Green is the New Black." In this special edition, read how companies are building a sustainable future, increasing energy efficiency and the share of renewable energy sources, developing and using innovative solutions that reduce waste and save resources.

Our thematic newsletter explores how far the region is from using waste as a new energy currency in a world where waste management is becoming one of the key environmental challenges. Waste incineration plants are emerging as a solution that not only reduces the amount of landfilled garbage but also transforms it into useful energy. We also address the economic impact of decreasing snowfall, as well as what happens to solar panels after their lifespan ends and the possibilities for their recycling in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region. From Montenegro, we bring you the story of the innovative Eco-board project that helps protect nature and generate savings.

Toma Vukić, Director of the Licensing Sector at company Mozzart revealed how the company is committed to creating a sustainable future, not only for itself but also for the communities in which it operates. He also spoke about how they are actively working on implementing environmentally friendly practices in their operations, while also engaging employees in numerous volunteer environmental initiatives carried out across the country.

Metalfer Group is a pioneer in implementing the circular economy, using steel scrap as the basic raw material, which allows them to reduce waste and use resources more efficiently. With Branko Zečević, president of Metalfer Group, we discussed what the path to a green transition in the metal industry looks like, what challenges they face, and what projects they are planning to stay ahead of the times, in order to confirm themselves as leaders in sustainable business in the global environment.

Company for intermediation in insurance ACB d.o.o. has built a reputation as a leading broker in the insurance of RES projects in Serbia, offering innovative solutions, strategic partnerships and the best investor protection. On how ACB sets the standards, recognizes challenges and ensures stability of large energy projects, speaks Stefan Jevremović, director of the Special Solutions Sector at ACB.

The companies Zorka Opeka and Zorka Keramika have been confirming their position as leaders in the production of construction materials for many years, but what really sets them apart in the market is the strategic commitment to sustainable development and innovations that contribute to environmental protection. With Bojan Dabić Zorka Opeka sales director and Zdravko Ivanković Zorka Keramika sales director we talked about how the domestic production of building materials can respond to the modern requirements of energy efficiency, what are the next steps in the development of sustainable technologies, as well as about the innovations that both companies plan to introduce in the coming period.

MPC Properties has been committed to the principles of green construction for 15 years, constantly improving its projects in order to achieve high environmental standards and reduce its ecological footprint. With a focus on sustainable development, the company has implemented innovative solutions in its projects, such as energy efficiency, use of renewable energy sources, and environmentally friendly construction techniques. In a conversation with Jovana Cvetković, director of the development, technical operations and innovation sector, we learned more about how the company integrates green innovation into its projects, follows global trends in sustainable construction and creates spaces that respond to community needs, while balancing ecological and commercial requirements.

Delta Real Estate, a member of the Delta Holding system, presented its Delta Iron project, currently under construction in Novi Sad. This modern office building will place special emphasis on sustainability, with 4,700 solar panels set to produce as much as 60% of the required energy. Geothermal probes will provide additional energy independence, while smart installations will enhance efficiency and significantly reduce monthly costs.

Lindström, a company that has been helping businesses grow sustainably for decades through its textile services based on circular economy principles, shows us how the circular economy can work in practice – on a daily basis, by meeting clients’ textile needs through sustainable services. The focus is on rental services for workwear and floor mats. Behind these simple concepts lies a thoughtful and sustainable business system that saves resources, time, and money.

Knauf Insulation factory in Surdulica, part of global Knauf Group, produces thermal, fireproof and sound insulation from stone mineral wool, thereby directly contributing to the energy efficiency of buildings and reducing the emission of harmful gases. In addition, the company is committed to implementing solutions that not only improve the production process, but also contribute to the preservation of natural resources and the reduction of negative impact on the environment.

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) represent an advanced technology for storing electrical energy. In these systems, energy is stored in the form of chemical energy inside batteries. As a leader in the field of energy solutions, ENEL PS has years of experience in designing, implementing, and maintaining advanced uninterruptible power systems. They presented how their team of experts provides comprehensive support – from needs analysis and technical design to delivery, installation, and integration of battery storage systems into existing energy infrastructures.

Industrial facilities in Serbia are increasingly opting for retrofit solutions to improve energy efficiency and system reliability without the need for complete equipment replacement. Companies like Sunoko in Vrbas and Lafarge Serbia in Beočin have successfully upgraded their systems with the support of ABB, as explained by their engineers. Each retrofit is tailored to the specific needs of the facility, enabling faster and more cost-effective modernization.

We also explore what to do with old electronic devices in Serbia, a topic explained in more detail by Marko Vučenović, Secretary General of the Serbian Recycling Association.

We wrote about the costs of installing solar panels on house rooftops in Serbia, and we bring you the story of the Serbian startup Ride & Stride (R&S), which enables companies to reward their employees every time they commute to work by carpooling, or by using public transportation, cycling, or walking.

The Government of Serbia recently adopted a Regulation on the Packaging Waste Reduction Plan for the period 2025–2029, setting quite ambitious goals. Sanja Knežević Mitrović, Head of the Environmental Unit at NALED, and representatives from the Center for Circular Economy at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia shared more insights on this topic with our portal.

As fashion changes seasonally and consumption grows faster than ever, one brand has decided to take a different path – Unikka. This local story of sustainability, handcraft, and timeless design was born from the desire to create something that lasts, carries meaning, and holds value.

We also prepared a story about researchers Miljana Mirković and Ana Kalijadis from the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, who are on the verge of developing a new cosmetic product made from solid coffee waste.

You can also learn about the zero waste concept in the hospitality industry and whether it will be the future of the sector.

The entire content of the newsletter can be viewed HERE.