The lack of required ecological flow from a hydropower dam in the Greek section of the Aoos/Vjosa River is endangering a unique and fragile ecosystem. A new scientific study underscores the urgent need to establish a minimum flow regime to restore the river’s ecological functions and safeguard its rich biodiversity.

Studenica River © Tijana Jevtić

The Serbian organisation for political ecology, Polekol, has submitted a complaint to the Bern Convention, warning that the construction of the small hydroelectric power plant Gradina on the Studenica River will jeopardise protected habitats and species of international significance. 

The confluence of the Janjina River with the Drina © Bruno D'Amici

The Ministry of Spatial Planning, Civil Engineering, and Ecology of the Republic of Srpska (BiH) has denied approval for the Environmental Impact Study for the "Janjina J-1" small hydropower plant, effectively halting the project. This decision marks a significant victory for the Janjina River, an important tributary of the Drina, preserving its natural flow and safeguarding its ecosystem.

In November 2024, EcoZ, together with the NGOs Pishtarët, GAIA Kosovo, and Riverwatch, submitted a complaint to the Energy Community Secretariat in Vienna/Austria against Kosovo with regard to the hydropower plants in Sharr National Park. 

The Rzav will remain free! © Majda Slamova

Thanks to the determination of local citizens the Government of the Republic of Srpska officially terminated concession contracts for two hydropower plants on the Black and White Rzav Rivers. This follows years of protests that successfully stopped the construction of seven small hydropower plants, ensuring the river’s protection.

Pages