18.06.2026.
Circular economy and green energy were the focus of the discussions at the first Green Forum Zagorje held in Radoboj. The event brought together experts, businessmen, and representatives of the public and private sectors with the aim of facilitating the transformation of local communities into active participants in the green transition.The representative of the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund, Tomislav Ilić, participated in the panel entitled "From idea to realisation - How to finance local projects?". Along with him, Valerija Vrček Habazin (REGEA), Tanja Ivek (Zagorje Development Agency) and Nikola Gospočić, mayor of the Donja Stubica, discussed the synergy of the public and real sectors on the panel.
"For 21 years, the Fund has been continuously financing energy projects, remediation projects, environmental protection and sustainable solutions in industrial production through its own resources," said Ilić. He pointed out that the primary goal of the Fund was to bring the available programmes as close as possible to local and regional self-government units so as to translate good ideas on the ground into concrete, sustainable projects.
Ilić also pointed out that financial resources were available, but the key to success was in preparation. Whether it is energy renovation, modern waste management or the introduction of renewable energy sources, the Fund's support ensures direct benefits for citizens and the local economy, and as one of the current opportunities, he pointed out the ongoing call for energy renovation of public sector buildings. This includes co-financing the renovation of schools, kindergartens, community centres, and municipal and city buildings, so this was an ideal moment for the implementation of planned investments in Krapina-Zagorje County.
The conclusion of the panel was that well-prepared documentation, clearly defined project goals and reliable partners in implementation are crucial for attracting funds, since the green transition has become a basic prerequisite for long-term competitiveness and environmental protection.
