The lnvesting in Green and Just Transition for a New Sustainable Business as Usual Economy project (BauNOW) addresses the urgent need for sustainable development in urban and urban-rural areas within the Mediterranean region, which are increasingly impacted by climate change and unsustainable practices. The project focuses on driving a Green and Just Transition (GJT) by improving the capabilities of public and private entities to plan and finance sustainable measures. BauNOW introduces an innovative tool, the GJT Dashboard, which provides step-by-step guidance on implementing GJT initiatives. This tool will be tested in nine pilot areas across seven countries, ensuring diverse applicability. The project aims to facilitate a paradigm shift towards a resilient, resource-efficient economy, establishing GJT as the new Business as Usual (BaU) standard. By fostering partnerships and engaging a broad network of stakeholders, BauNOW aspires to create a lasting impact on regional development and investment practices.

BauNOW brings together local authorities, regional agencies, and NGOs from across the Mediterranean to leverage diverse expertise in sustainable development. This partnership spans old and new EU countries, ensuring the robustness of the project’s methodology across different contexts. Associated Strategic Partners add valuable insights and support the project’s regional expansion. The diverse partnership ensures comprehensive and impactful project implementation.

Project Partners:

1. Geodetic Institute of Slovenia (GIS), Slovenia
2. Iskriva, Institute for Development of Local Potentials, Slovenia
3. Regional Energy Agency North (REAN), Croatia
4. Municipality of Legrad, Croatia
5. Kyoto Club, Italia
6. Geres, Group for the Environment, Renewable Energy and Solidarity, France
7. Development Agency of Una – Sana Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina
8. City of Cazin, Bosnia and Herzegovina
9. University of Donja Gorica, Montenegro
10. Agricultural University of Tirana Shqipëria, Albania

The BauNOW project launched its ambitious initiative for a Green and Just Transition (GJT) with a successful kick-off meeting. Hosted by the lead partner, the event provided an overview of the project’s goals and implementation strategies.

The meeting began with a welcome address, followed by an introduction to BauNOW’s overarching ambitions. Key work packages were presented, outlining the project’s plans and expected outcomes. GIS/ISKRIVA discussed the initial framework and objectives, REAN focused on strategies for achieving sustainable development goals, and UDG highlighted innovative stakeholder engagement methodologies. RAUSK outlined communication strategies, and GIS detailed the administrative structure for project execution.

The second day featured pilot presentations on GJT aspects. GERES discussed Carbon Community Schemes, CAZIN highlighted Solar Cooperatives, AUT explored protected areas, and LEGRAD and REAN covered regional microfinance schemes. GIS presented on accessible mobility, RAUSK discussed a sustainable transition hub, and REAN introduced new support information points. UDG focused on knowledge co-creation and educational approaches, as well as the Green and Just Transition Road Show. KYOTO CLUB introduced new stakeholder engagement tools.

The session concluded with a Q&A segment, followed by a networking lunch.

The BauNOW kick-off meeting set a solid foundation for future activities, reinforcing the collaborative efforts needed for a sustainable and equitable future in the Mediterranean region.