KATHMANDU: Switzerland is supporting the promotion of sustainable rural tourism in Serbia through innovative green projects that integrate environmental protection, circular economy, and renewable energy. One of the most notable examples is the "Gralo" estate in Divci, near Valjevo, Serbia's first circular rural tourism and agricultural property.

During a recent visit to Gralo, dignitaries including the Swiss Ambassador to Serbia, Anne Lugon-Moulin, Serbia’s Minister of Environmental Protection Sara Pavkov, UNDP Resident Representative Yakup Beris, and EU Delegation official Antoine Avignon, observed firsthand the successful implementation of eco-friendly practices made possible through Swiss financial support under the “EU for the Green Agenda in Serbia” project.

Eco-Innovation in Action
With Swiss funding, Gralo has installed a wastewater treatment facility capable of purifying over 3 million liters of wastewater annually. The treated water is reused for irrigating green areas and energy willow plantations, the latter serving as a renewable source for pellet heating—significantly reducing freshwater use and greenhouse gas emissions.

The estate also practices sustainable farming, raising over 100 sheep. The manure is converted into compost, replacing chemical fertilizers and contributing to soil health and lower methane emissions.

“This project clearly demonstrates how wastewater, biomass, and renewable energy can be integrated to reduce environmental impact. Gralo shows that sustainable development is not only necessary but also inspiring,” said Ambassador Lugon-Moulin. Switzerland has funded 31 such green solutions in Serbia with over USD 2.1 million so far.

Circular Economy in Practice
Serbia’s Minister Pavkov praised Gralo for fully embodying the principles of a circular economy and emphasized the importance of replicating such models nationwide. “This green household shows how development and environmental protection can go hand in hand,” she said.

Yakup Beris of UNDP highlighted the rising threat of drought in Serbia and its impact on agriculture and rural livelihoods. He called on businesses to follow Gralo’s example, noting that “UNDP, with its partners, will continue to support green innovations to drive Serbia’s transition.”

EU Delegation official Antoine Avignon reiterated the EU’s commitment to Serbia’s green transition, citing support for businesses to decarbonize, improve circularity, and protect biodiversity as central goals.

Green Agenda for Serbia
The Gralo initiative is one of 89 green solutions supported under the “EU for Green Agenda in Serbia,” a comprehensive project implemented by UNDP with support from the EU, Switzerland, Sweden, Serbia, and the European Investment Bank (EIB). The initiative aims to accelerate Serbia’s shift toward a sustainable, low-carbon economy through technical, financial, and policy assistance.