≡-How Switzerland Support Helps Gralo Estate Pioneer Eco-Conscious Farming and Tourism Practices in Serbia Creating a Model for Sustainable Rural Development: New Update – Viral of Today

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Home » Serbia Travel News » How Switzerland Support Helps Gralo Estate Pioneer Eco-Conscious Farming and Tourism Practices in Serbia Creating a Model for Sustainable Rural Development: New Update Saturday, June 21, 2025Switzerland is playing an instrumental role in Serbia’s journey towards sustainability, exemplified by its support for the Gralo estate, the first circular rural tourism and agricultural venture in the country. Located in Divci, near Valjevo, Gralo is redefining how rural tourism and farming can operate harmoniously with the environment. With financial backing from the Swiss Government through the “EU for the Green Agenda in Serbia” initiative, Gralo is setting new standards for sustainable practices that marry innovation, agriculture, and eco-tourism, positioning itself as a model for similar projects across the region.A key feature of Gralo’s sustainable operations is the installation of an advanced wastewater treatment system, funded by Switzerland. This facility processes over three million liters of wastewater annually, effectively transforming it into a valuable resource. The treated water is repurposed to irrigate the estate’s lush landscapes, as well as energy willows planted specifically to produce biomass for heating purposes. By reusing wastewater in this way, Gralo reduces its dependency on fresh water, thus conserving precious local water resources and minimizing its environmental impact.The energy willows play a dual role in Gralo’s sustainable system. In addition to providing irrigation, they are used to produce biomass that is converted into pellets for heating. This renewable energy source helps reduce Gralo’s reliance on fossil fuels, cutting greenhouse gas emissions in the process. The estate’s sustainable water management practices not only address the need for efficient water use but also support Serbia’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change.Waste management is another area where Gralo stands out. The estate raises 100 sheep, and rather than discarding the manure, it is used to create compost. This compost is then employed to nurture the estate’s green areas and landscaping, eliminating the need for synthetic fertilizers. Through this organic process, Gralo reduces methane emissions, which would otherwise be generated if the manure were left to decompose in landfills. The composting system enhances the soil’s health, ensuring that it remains fertile for years to come while promoting sustainable land management.At the core of Gralo’s operations is a commitment to the principles of a circular economy, which emphasizes resource reuse, waste minimization, and sustainability. By integrating these principles into every facet of its business—from wastewater treatment to organic waste management—Gralo has created a closed-loop system where resources are recycled and reused, reducing the need for new resources and cutting down on environmental pollution. This innovative approach not only helps Gralo operate more sustainably but also demonstrates how circular economy practices can lead to long-term environmental and economic benefits.Gralo’s success is part of a larger effort to help Serbia transition to a more sustainable economy. The “EU for the Green Agenda in Serbia” initiative, which has provided critical financial and technical support to the estate, aims to advance Serbia’s green transformation by fostering low-carbon, environmentally responsible economic practices. Backed by the European Union, the Swiss Government, the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Swedish Government, this initiative is working to support green projects across Serbia, and Gralo’s circular economy practices stand as a testament to the progress being made.Through this initiative, Gralo is one of 89 green transition projects that have received backing for their efforts to promote sustainability. These projects span a variety of sectors, including renewable energy, water conservation, waste management, and sustainable agriculture. By supporting projects like Gralo, Serbia is making significant strides toward achieving its climate targets and reducing its environmental footprint. The work being done at Gralo is a prime example of how rural businesses can contribute to national sustainability goals while also generating economic value.Gralo’s approach to sustainability has garnered praise from environmental experts, including Yakup Beris, the UNDP Resident Representative in Serbia, who has highlighted the estate as a model for other Serbian businesses to emulate. He has urged companies across Serbia to embrace circular economy practices, noting that such efforts not only benefit the environment but can also yield financial and operational advantages. By integrating sustainability into their business models, companies can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and open new opportunities for growth, all while supporting the green transition of the country.The Gralo estate has demonstrated that integrating circular economy principles into agricultural and tourism operations is not only feasible but can also lead to substantial environmental and economic benefits. As Serbia continues its green transition, more businesses will need to adopt similar practices to reduce resource consumption and minimize their environmental impact. Gralo’s success underscores the importance of sustainable business models and the crucial role they play in shaping a greener, more resilient economy.The Swiss Government’s involvement in the “EU for the Green Agenda in Serbia” project is an essential part of Serbia’s ongoing efforts to build a sustainable future. Switzerland’s support for Gralo’s eco-friendly innovations demonstrates the value of international cooperation in tackling global environmental challenges. The collaboration between the European Union, Switzerland, Sweden, the European Investment Bank, and Serbia is crucial in ensuring that these projects succeed and contribute to long-lasting sustainability in the region.Gralo’s success is not only a win for Serbia’s green transition but also for the circular economy movement. The estate has shown that rural tourism and agriculture can play a significant role in sustainability by adopting practices that conserve water, reduce waste, and promote the use of renewable energy. Gralo’s eco-conscious business model provides a roadmap for other rural tourism and farming ventures to follow, highlighting how businesses in these sectors can thrive while minimizing their ecological footprint.In conclusion, Gralo represents a significant achievement in Serbia’s green transformation, setting a benchmark for other rural businesses to follow. By integrating sustainable practices into its operations, Gralo is not only preserving the environment but also contributing to Serbia’s long-term economic development. With continued support from international partners like Switzerland, Gralo and similar projects will continue to lead the way in building a more sustainable future for Serbia. By adopting circular economy principles, Serbia can become a leader in sustainable development, fostering innovation, protecting natural resources, and ensuring a brighter, greener future for all.Tags: Switzerland, Tourism news

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