The delegation of German Federal Environmental Foundation - DBU Continues Kosovo Visit with Focus on Sustainable Tourism, Green Innovation and Research Cooperation

As part of the joint mission in Kosovo, representatives of the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU) and CNVP Kosovo began the second day of the visit in Peja with a meeting at the Tourist Information Office. The delegation was introduced to ongoing tourism development initiatives, visitor management activities, and opportunities for promoting sustainable tourism in and around the Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park. Discussions highlighted the importance of balancing nature conservation with local economic development and strengthening the role of tourism in supporting rural communities.

The programme then continued in Rahovec, where the delegation met with representatives of the University of Prishtina – Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, the Department of Vineyards and Wine and experts from the viticulture sector. Discussions focused on opportunities for research cooperation and the application of plant-based biochar in agriculture, soil improvement and sustainable land management.

The delegation also visited a local winery in Rahovec, known as Kosovo’s wine capital, where participants were introduced to the region’s long-standing wine production tradition and its contribution to local economic development.

The visit then proceeded to the University “Ukshin Hoti” in Prizren where the delegation was welcomed by the Rector, Associate Professor Dr. Mentor Alishani, together with academic staff from the Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences. During the meeting, discussions focused on the new “Plant-based Biochar” funding cluster, the potential of biochar for sustainable agriculture and environmental protection, as well as opportunities for cooperation in research projects and international funding programs.

Following the meeting at the Rectorate, the delegation visited the Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, where they were introduced to the faculty’s laboratory capacities, including its newest laboratory, established through a donation made possible by cooperation with the University of Konstanz.

The visit concluded with a tour of the historic city of Prizren, highlighting Kosovo’s cultural heritage and tourism potential.

The meetings and field visits strengthened cooperation among environmental, academic and local development stakeholders while identifying opportunities for future collaboration in sustainable land use and green innovation.