bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and adoption of planning documents through the phases
Authors: Lalošević Marija , Hadži-Arsenović Milica
Published: November 2024

The topic of the paper is the phasing in the adoption of a planning documents, as a new planning practice and the challenges of developing plans in such a methodological framework. The paper deals with the analysis of phasing as a model from the perspective of the plan processor, through the presentation of two case studies in the form of planning documents prepared through phases, in part or as a whole: Plan of general regulation for the construction area in the seat of the local self-government unit - the city of Belgrade (units I-XIX), Plan of general regulation for the railway systems in Belgrade with elements of detailed elaboration. The aim of the paper is to set up a platform for a wider professional discussion on the definition of the phase as a concept, its relation to the planning document, its position/application in the planning system today, as well as the challenges it brings regarding the creation, adoption, and implementation of planning documents.
The role of local government authorities in enhancing tourism: A case study of city Vršac
Authors: Mešanović Miroslav
Published: November 2024

The city of Vršac, located in southeastern Banat, Serbia, harbors rich historical and cultural heritage with significant potential for tourism development. This paper explores the impact of local policies on tourism development in Vršac, using the Ritchie-Croutch competitiveness model as an analytical framework. By examining local government policies and their influence on the tourism sector, the research identifies key factors and challenges in the tourism development process. The analysis of results indicates that effective local government policies can significantly contribute to sustainable tourism development and community prosperity. These findings underscore the importance of further research and implementation of policies that support the integration of tourism into local development. The research results highlight key factors influencing the success of the tourism sector, including infrastructure, content offerings, and marketing. Additionally, challenges such as resource scarcity, inadequate promotion, and lack of coordination among relevant stakeholders have been identified. These data provide deeper insight into the dynamics of tourism development in the city of Vršac and emphasize the need for a holistic approach in policy formulation.
Demographic problems of the regional development of the Pirot and Jablanica regions
Authors: Sedlak Marko , Josifov Nemanja
Published: November 2024

Demographic factors play a key role in the overall development of a particular region. The research territory of this work includes the Pirot and Jablanica regions, and the time frame is a two-decade period (from 2002 to 2022 population census). This work aims to identify demographic problems and to single out the territory, within the studied area, where depopulation is most pronounced. Based on the demographic depression index, a regional distribution of the most vulnerable parts of the Pirot and Jablanica regions was made. Using the same indicator, a comparative analysis of similarities and differences in the demographic characteristics of these two areas was done. In addition to the above, the task of the work is to consider the possibility of connecting local self-governments, sustainable use of natural and cultural values in the function of primarily local and then regional development of the mentioned part of Serbia, and comprehensive economic renewal. There is a special emphasis on identifying and proposing solutions to alleviate the currently unfavourable demographic trends and revitalize them through population policy measures and the cooperation of different sectors and levels of government.
Eco-villages as models of sustainable development
Authors: Gatarić Dragica , Belij-Radin Marija
Published: November 2024

Globally, due to the obvious growing environmental, social, cultural and economic challenges facing our planet, it is only natural that we strive for models that will demonstrate an achievable sustainable future. On a planetary scale, there is hardly anything more appealing - but seemingly more elusive - than the opportunity to live in harmony with nature and each other. Eco-villages, as human habitats, i.e. comprehensive communities, both urban and rural, meet this need, because they are friendly integrated into the natural environment and have the ability to be successfully maintained in the future while respecting the principles of sustainability. Relations within the natural environment and towards that environment are matters of "ecological balance" par excellence. Consequently, today the village is perceived and viewed as an ecological model, where instead of a "place to live" it is viewed as a "place to rest".
The concept of the image of urban tourist destinations
Authors: Marković Nevena
Published: November 2024

Image, as a concept in a cosmopolitan society, means the appearance, reputation, perception of someone or something in the mind of the consumer. In the field of tourism, these are the impressions, prejudices, emotions of an individual and/or group about a certain locality, place, region or country. The role of the image of a potential tourist focused on urban areas is considered critical in the process of choosing a destination, along with price and quality. Unlike rural regions, which are assigned as clean, peaceful and with a preserved environment, cities, i.e. urban areas are characterized as dirty, noisy, overcrowded and unsafe stopping points of a certain journey. The carrying capacity of the urban tourist destination is questionable, and the implementation of the guidelines of tourism development strategies is almost invisible. Nevertheless, many cities, despite the irrational use of natural resources, are still popular destinations today. In the continuation of the paper, more will be said about image formation itself and its components, the identity of cities and whether it can be lost or just modified, as well as about the subsequent branding of urban entities due to the organization of specific events.
Perspectives of tourism development in the Municipality of Kovačica
Authors: Perović Katarina , Busić Jovana
Published: November 2024

The Municipality of Kovačica represents an area with exceptional potential for tourism development due to its rich cultural and historical heritage, tradition, and natural resources. This paper presents opportunities and challenges for the advancement of this economic sector, focusing on strategies that could attract more visitors. An analysis of the current state of natural geographical and socio-economic characteristics has identified key factors that can stimulate tourism development in this region. The cultural and historical heritage of the municipality, particularly the rich tradition of naive art and craft skills, forms the backbone of cultural tourism. Promoting these authentic cultural elements could generate interest from both domestic and foreign visitors. Moreover, the preservation of natural resources (forests, rivers, lakes, etc.) is not just important, but crucial for the prospects of ecotourism development. The implementation of appropriate promotional strategies, infrastructure investments, and collaboration with other regions are pivotal steps towards further tourism development in the Municipality of Kovačica. We provide concrete recommendations for actions that should be taken to realize the potential of tourism development, with a strong emphasis on the importance of sustainable tourism and the valorization of local cultural and natural resources.
Strengthening local communities of small towns and settlements through networking, digitalization and education: DANUrB project
Authors: Đukić Aleksandra , Marić Jelena , Jović Emilija
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we will present the results of a project financed by the European Union - Interreg projects DANUrB and DANUrB+ (Danube Urban Brand). These projects included seven European countries including Serbia, with the basic idea of encouraging the development of cities along the Danube region by empowering sustainable tourism based on cultural and natural heritage and cross-border collaboration. The focus of the projects was on small and medium-sized cities on the Danube, which are actively facing and struggling with the problem of constant urban shrinkage, despite the natural and built potentials. On the territory of Serbia, cooperation was realized with Golubac, Sombor, Smederevo, and Bačka Palanka. The presented results of the project are divided into three categories: (01) Networking and cooperation with local governments and stakeholders; (02) Digitization and use of ICT to affirm the value of tangible and intangible heritage and (03) Education and cooperation with students. These results include the formation of a unique digital platform for stakeholders, as well as mobile applications for tourists, and the creation of a digital and analog Atlas. Also, active networking through workshops and meetings with local municipalities, providing expert assistance in the field of architecture and urbanism, as well as the affirmation of local heritage and open public spaces through the development of the "Danube Pavilion" in Golupac and the mural with a thematic representation of intangible local heritage in Sombor. All the aforementioned results of the project actively influence the strengthening of local communities of small and medium-sized towns on the Danube, through networking, digitization, and education.
Connecting local governments as a basis for development and cross-border cooperation through cultural heritage on the territory of Serbia and Bulgaria
Authors: Živaljević-Luxor Nataša , Stojanović Dejan
Published: November 2024

The dispersiveness of immovable cultural assets in Serbia, as a testimony of the long settlement of the areas where Serbia and its neighbors are located, represents an advantage for development. This is signifi cant considering that immovable cultural assets represent the backbone of urban area development and that their size in the global context is increasingly important. The paper uses a case study of archaeological sites and other immovable cultural assets along Corridor X and the area divided by the state border inhabited by the Torlacians.
Territorial networking of the local self-governement units on the example of Rtanj settlements
Authors: Jeftić Marija , Šećerov Velimir , Protić Branko
Published: November 2024

The paper presents a perspective functional connecting of settlements that belong to the territories of diff erent local self-governments, elaborated on the example of under Rtanj settlements. The observed area covers the atars of rural settlements, belonging to the territories of Boljevac and Sokobanja municipalities in Eastern Serbia, between whom there are certain types of functional complementarity but also development limitations. The paper presents conceptual proposals for the establishment of a rational organization of settlements in this area based on relevant theoretical-methodological assumptions and qualitative-quantitative indicators. Considerable attention is being given to the users of space harmonization interests, and especially on the interests harmonization of the tourism development and population, environmental protection, nature protection, natural and cultural-historical assets.
Istrian japad towns: Fortresses as tourist destinations and attractions
Authors: Ambruš Denis
Published: November 2024

Continuing from the periods of pre-antique, antique, medieval and modern urban culture, this research paper presents the existing urbanism of a portion of Istrian inland settlements and towns. It is assumed that even in pre-antique times, Istria had settlements that could meet basic urban principles in terms of their form, scope and function. Similarly, this also applied to their later development due to the changing economic and social needs of their inhabitants, all within specific formed heterogeneous communities. Towns like Grožnjan, Motovun, Oprtalj, Bale, Pazin, Žminj, etc., emerged as examples of the tradition of the so-called "urban climate." With some explored Istrian japad towns, it is possible to observe their current condition through the morphogenesis of the old town urban core as the initially established physical and social structure. In the presented examples, complete or partial monocentric dense structures are predominantly visible, sometimes additionally reinforced with perimeter extensions. Assuming a (non)planned mix between spontaneously shaped vs. created formations, today, despite all their limitations, these towns are attractive focal points of tourist demand and motivation for travel. Such former fortresses as tourist destinations and attractions open up a core of research concerning new developmental challenges as a paradigmatic pattern of identity survival in the changed circumstances of the 21st century.
Potentials of natural and cultural resources of the Pčinja district for tourism development
Authors: Vuletić Jovana , Miletić Milan , Marić-Stanković Anđelina
Published: November 2024

The border location has contributed to an unjustified neglect of the tourist development of the Pcinja district. Poor promotion, disorganization and inadequate accessibility are the reasons why the natural and anthropogenic tourist values of the Pcinja district remain unknown to the public. Vlasina, Vranje, Vranjska Banja and Besna Kobila have been identified as priority destinations for intensive tourism valorization in the Tourism Development Strategy of the Republic of Serbia for the period from 2016 to 2025, which indicates their potential for tourism development. The article presents the results of a survey on tourist satisfaction with the natural and anthropogenic tourist values and tourist infrastructure of the Pcinja district. The research was conducted using a survey among tourists who visited the Pcinja district. The data obtained by the survey were processed using the statistical program Statistical Package for the Social Sciences IBM 26.0 (SPSS). The analysis of the results showed that tourists are partially satisfied with the tourist values and services, but not with the tourist infrastructure. Such results lead to the conclusion that it is necessary to invest in the development of tourist planning and infrastructure improvement in order to include the Pcinja district in tourist fl ows. By establishing an attractive offer through the combination of natural and cultural tourist attractions and different types of tourism, the stay of tourists is extended and tourist spending is increased, which affects the overall economic development of the Pcinja district.
Comparative analysis of the geoturistic potential of the natural monuments Ostrovica and Borački krš
Authors: Durlević Uroš , Josifov Nemanja
Published: November 2024

During the last few years, there has been increased visitation to various geoheritage sites throughout Serbia. On the territory of Šumadija, the ascents to two peaks of volcanic origin - Ostrovica and Borački krš - are increasingly popular with visitors. Due to their geological, geomorphological, and biogeographical importance, these localities have been placed under state protection. The aim of the article is to evaluate the geotourism potential of the natural monuments Ostrovica and Borački krš using the GAM (geosite assessment model) method. The analysis of the GAM model includes a detailed evaluation of the main (natural) and additional (tourist) values, which are further divided into indicators and sub-indicators. The main values include three indicators: scientific/educational, aesthetic/ landscape, and level of protection. Additional values include the analysis of functional and tourist indicators. Each indicator contains sub-indicators whose scoring (0-1) evaluates the geotourism potential. Finally, the obtained results for both localities are entered into a chart consisting of nine fields. The research of natural monuments and the obtained results enable the presentation of a realistic picture of the potential for the development of geotourism. The results will be useful to managers of protected areas, local self-government units, tourism organizations, and the local population better to understand new opportunities and current shortcomings regarding tourism offers.
The role of tourism in the local development of Zaječar district
Authors: Sedlak Marko , Malinić Vladimir
Published: November 2024

The importance of tourism is reflected in the economic progress of a certain area and it is a significant factor in the transformation of space. The aim of this paper is to single out tourism as a factor of transformation of the economic structure of the population and the local development potential of the Zaječar District. The paper analyzed the tendencies of tourism development through the monitoring of tourist traffic, as well as the utilization of natural and anthropogenic tourist values in the function of encouraging tourism and (sustainable) development of the Zaječar District. The focus of this paper is regional differences in development potential and the achieved level of tourism development within this district, with the aim of presenting the possibility of connecting local self-government units in the function of creating a common strategy for the development of this territory. By applying the correlation method, the work established a link between the achieved level of tourism development (through traffic, number of overnight stays and length of stay of tourists) and the transformation of the economic structure of the population, based on data on their employment according to activities. The paper discusses the possibilities in which the development of tourism can stimulate first the local and then the regional development of this area. Key development problems (depopulation, senility of the population, traffic infrastructure) were also identified, which solving is necessary in order to create a basis for improving tourism, and thus the level of development of the Zaječar district.
Accommodation facilities in the function of tourism development: The case study of the city of Pirot, Republic of Serbia
Authors: Dostović Emilija , Lukić Bogdan
Published: November 2024

With its cultural and natural heritage, the Pirot district is an extremely recognizable tourist destination of Serbia and its heritage. Various forms of tourism have developed on the attractions of the subject territory: cultural-historical, mountainous, rural, ecotourism, transit, event and religious tourism. The district includes four municipalities: Bela Palanka, Pirot, Babušnica and Dimitrovgrad. The municipality of Pirot is the most developed municipality in southeastern Serbia. The paper will primarily present and analyze accommodation capacities as well as potentials and limitations that are typical for the city of Pirot. The subject of research are tourist destinations in the vicinity of Pirot, Stara Planina, as the mountain with the most tourist potential for the development of alternative forms of tourism; Zavojsko jezero, traditional villages, monasteries and caves. Special emphasis is placed on the untapped potential of Stara Planina, which could reach the level of similar competitive destinations in the future. Considering the highest degree of protection of the Stara Planina area, it is necessary to enable the development of tourist activities with minimal conflicts and threats to natural and cultural values through adequate technical and tourist infrastructure projects. Tourist and general infrastructure represent the basic elements that affect accessibility, equipment, as well as the possibility of staying and using services in accommodation facilities at a tourist destination. In order to protect and adequately use natural and cultural values, an integral approach is necessary in the development and management of accommodation facilities as a powerful and comprehensive tool and framework for sustainable and continuous development.
"Ecological years of life" in Serbia
Authors: Mirić Natalija
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a subjective indicator of ecological dimensions of quality of life. The author defi nes this indicator as "Ecological years of life" (ELY) based on the fact that being alive is an essential prerequisite for enjoying any quality of life. While life expectancy is at the basis of this indicator, ELY also refl ects that mere survival is not enough; therefore, life years are combined with the subjective assessment of satisfaction with living environment. Based on data from the EU-SILC survey and WHO life tables, the author uses the well-established Sullivan method. ELY are calculated by weighting in a life table the age-specific person-years lived with age-specific proportions of satisfaction with living environment. The main result is the existence of a large gap between total life years and ecological life years, which indicates a low level of population satisfaction with the ecological conditions in Serbia.
Perception of the youth: Urban vs rural tourism
Authors: Bogdanović Maja , Vesić Marina
Published: November 2024

Years ago, tourism was presented in numerous scientific papers as a phenomenon which greatly contributes to the economic and social well-being of the community in which it develops. It is known that there are various natural and cultural values which are located in rural or urban areas and which are used as such to promote an attractive tourist offer which will attract different segments of tourist demand. Given that tourism has a long tradition and that there is almost no country that does not recognize its multiple importance, the increase in competition on the tourist market was inevitable. Bearing in mind the current global trends, the question arises as to which form of tourism will satisfy the needs of an increasingly significant demand segment - young tourists. Especially relevant is the perspective of young people who approach this issue from an academic perspective and who understand the advantages of both urban and rural tourism, which will be analyzed in this paper. The authors of the paper try to present the perception of young people and determine whether the tourist offer in cities has an advantage over rural tourism when choosing a trip. For the purposes of the paper, the SPSS program was used for data processing. The research can contribute to the carriers of the tourist offer in urban and rural areas in further shaping the offer and directing it towards different demand segments.
Ethno-demografical characteristics micro region Visok of Stara Planina in the function of tourism
Authors: Velojić Miodrag , Radovanović Olica , Simonović Maja
Published: November 2024

Visok is the largest micro region of Stara Planina Mountain, located under its highest peaks, on the average altitude of 800m. It covers the territory of 614,93 km2 and districts of 25 settlements, including 3 settlements which were flooded with the formation of Zavojsko jezero lake. Owing to its geographical location and favorable natural conditions this micro region was inhabited a long time ago. The inhabitants of these mountain settlements have preserved the continuity of their living and cultural development unchanged for centuries. All of its settlements have existed in the form of communities for centuries and grew in specific geographical, socio-economic and historical conditions. The facts indicate that in the settlements of this micro region there are anthropogenic resources that are characterized by their originality and a high degree of preservation and that can be valued for tourism in different ways. The way of life, costumes, customs, traditions and language are very archaic, they have not changed for centuries, so they are attractive to all those who are interested in the past, science, art and the soul of the people. A tour of these settlements represents a time machine back to the distant centuries, which makes research tempting for archaeologists, ethnologists, sociologists, biologists, linguists, geographers, but also many tourist workers and visitors. In this paper, the ethno-demographic characteristics of the settlements of this part of Stara Planina will be presented, which can be put to the function of tourism, because this is the only way to save it from the deterioration of its endangered, centuries-old, cultural and social value - unique in its peculiarities, cultural - historical characteristics and people.
Demographic resources as potential or limitation for the development of the Stara planina nature park
Authors: Trnavčević Nevena , Bakić Damjan
Published: November 2024

The geographical area of Stara Planina is a legally protected area with significant economic and tourist potential. The natural and tourist capacity of this area represents a significant resource for the economic revitalisation of this socially peripheral area with insufficient development. The basis of any successful development plan is a comprehensive assessment of the natural, economic and demographic potentials and limitations of a given area. The Stara Planina region, as well as the entire region of Southern and Eastern Serbia, is a demographically devastated area with very unfavourable values of indicators of natural movement and population structure. The valorisation of the natural potentials for tourism purposes represents a double task in order to preserve biodiversity and a balanced economic development. Due to the aforementioned discrepancy between the existing natural tourism potential and the demographic constraints that are an integral part of the economic development plan of the area, the study of the demographic sustainability of the area is of particular importance. In this work, the demographic resource index was used as an indicator of the demographic sustainability of the area. The demographic resources index is based on the values of eleven indicators for the demographic "vitality" and educational characteristics of the population. The results obtained show that there are significant demographic constraints, with the indicators for the ageing process and natural population movement showing even less favourable values and trends.
Vacant residential units in rural settlements of southeastern Serbia: Is there a future outside the cities?
Authors: Đurkin Danica , Vukašinović Sandra
Published: November 2024

Rural depopulation in the settlements of southeastern Serbia, lasting more than half a century, is the result of a combination of historical, geopolitical, economic, sociocultural and other factors that caused unfavorable demographic trends in this area. One of the most obvious but least studied effects of depopulation is vacant residental units, the first material signal of the abandonment of the rural areas. Abandoned houses and overgrown gardens are typical in rural areas in Serbia, primarily in the southeastern part. The population is the oldest, and the number of abandoned housing units is the highest. Caught in the vortex of depopulation, the survival of many rural settlements is uncertain and, in some cases, almost impossible. However, the question arises whether, by managing the "excess" housing differently, this problem can become a resource. Although depopulation in Serbia has been studied from several aspects, the aim of this paper is to point out the importance of identifying abandoned buildings of rural housing, their extent and spatial distribution, as well as a function "tool" for potential changes in rural areas.
Water quality issues and its impact on the environment and anthropogenic activities in the Danube River Basin (Central and Southeastern Europe): A review
Authors: Milentijević Nikola , Pantelić Milana , Vukoičić Danijela , Ristić Dušan , Božović Sanja
Published: November 2024

In the paper were analyzed physical and chemical parameters collected from recent data based on survey techniques. They were discussed from the environmental aspect and human activities along the Danube River Basin. The Danube River Basin is Europe's second largest river basin, with a total area of 801,463 km². More than 80 million people from 19 countries share the Danube catchment area, making it the world's most international river basin. All countries comprising over 2,000 km² of the Basin, and also the European Union, are contracting parties of the International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River (ICPDR), which is charged with coordinating the conservation, improvement and rational use of Danube waters. The Danube River was always the most important European River, providing the basic necessities for human life. From its source to mouth the Danube River and its tributaries serve as a resource for different water uses, like drinking water supply, industry and energy production, transport, irrigation in agricultural areas, waste water recipient, etc. In addition to that the Danube River and its basin is an area of high biological diversity that is not only important for such activities like tourism, fishery and forestry, but it is also a habitat for large population of animal and plant species. For many of the water uses and river functions good water quality is the most important. However, many of the economic activities in the Danube region are having negative impact on environment. The key sectors influencing the overall environmental quality and in particular water quality are industrial activities, agriculture and municipalities.
Effects of involving different actors into the local level planning process
Authors: Vujić Dejan , Čolić Ratka , Veljović Viktor
Published: November 2024

In a dynamic modern environment, the creation and implementation of effective policies of sustainable and integral urban development is of key importance for ensuring the prosperity and sustainability of cities. The urban area development strategy shapes the path of development, including various sectors such as: infrastructure, economy, environment, culture, social protection services, etc. The complexity of contemporary challenges requires a collaborative approach that goes beyond the boundaries of local administration. The involvement of partners - different levels and sectors of administration, companies, educational and research organizations, non-profit organizations, social groups and citizens plays a key role in the formulation, monitoring and implementation of the strategy. Experiences in the development of the Strategy for the Development of the Urban Area of the City of Šabac in 2023 indicate the importance of including various actors, their views, knowledge and resources in the planning process. Although not without resistance, the applied participatory approach contributed to a better identification of problems, understanding of needs, creation of a vision and selection of strategic projects that represent a locally specific urban identity.
Governance of the supra-local areas at the local level: Case study Smederevo
Authors: Hadži-Arsenović Milica , Živanović-Ristović Vladislava
Published: November 2024

The topic of the paper is governance and planning of the areas significant for local urban development, which generate hierarchically, thematically and structurally complex interests and governance mechanisms. Quite often, in areas of significant importance for the city, and thus of significant value for the local community, there are contents or elements over which a large number of supra-local level institutions have jurisdiction, which implies their inclusion in the process of planning and governance of these areas. The development of such an area, as an integral part of the urban system of the city, has the greatest impact at the local level and thus represents the primary interest of the local community. On the other hand, individual elements or contents of supra-local jurisdiction represent a segment in much broader systems at the regional or national level, and thus, usually, a lower priority of the various institutions that manage them. According to that, there is an issue of real governance authorities of local self-government, as well as the capacity of institutions at the supra-local level, in order to involve all relevant stakeholders simultaneously in the process of governance and planning of such areas. The above-mentioned issue is examined on the example of the Smederevo city Danube riverbank, which, besides being extremely important for the city and the local community, raises a wide range of topics and involves a large number of institutions with diff erent interests, both at the local and supra-local level.
Urban plans and agricultural land: Experiences from the Republic of Srpska
Authors: Ivanišević Marko , Gvozden-Sliško Dijana , Protić Branko
Published: November 2024

Agricultural land represents a natural wealth and a common interest for the Republic of Srpska. The legislative framework has clearly defi ned the protection, regulation, use, and disposal of agricultural land, while appropriate strategies and plans have concretized various measures and activities. However, despite the imperative need for the protection of the highest quality agricultural land, numerous examples of irrational and spontaneous actions are evident in practice, ultimately leading to degradation or complete loss of agricultural land. This paper analyzes the treatment of agricultural land in 9 Urban plans developed in the territory of the Republic of Srpska. Analyses of land uses have indicated that agricultural land is significantly suppressed by other land use classes.
Belgrade Waterfront: A portal for "true" reality
Authors: Graovac Ana , Đokić Jasmina , Slavković Ljubica , Radovanović Ksenija
Published: November 2024

The paper explores the peculiarities of "alternative reality" that stands on the other side of the Belgrade Waterfront project as a kind of portal. The first part of the paper summarizes the basic assumptions of contemporary planning and its relationship to the market economy and democratic social order. In the second part of the paper, various dimensions of planning are analyzed, such as the role of planning, the legal framework of planning, coordination of plans and policies, urban governance and decentralization, public interest, both outside and within the area covered by this project. In this way, the diff erences between the contemporary planning settings and those that characterize the "alternative reality" of the Belgrade Waterfront project are summarized. The conclusion of the paper formulates open questions facing urban planning in the Republic of Serbia arising from such a dichotomy.
Analysis of the Elaborate for the early public insight of Master Plan of Belgrade 2041 in the context of climate mitigation planning
Authors: Ivanović Bojana , Dabović Tijana , Pjanović Bojana
Published: November 2024

The intensification of human activities is the chief cause of increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere, accelerating climate change. This results in rising air and ocean temperatures and leads to prolonged droughts, devastating floods, and storms, which pose global risks with local implications. International institutions are urging countries to reduce GHG emissions through various agreements, like the Paris Agreement which Serbia has ratified, committing to a 13.2% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030. Similarly, Belgrade, under the Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 40% in specific sectors by 2030. Spatial and urban planning should address questions regarding which activities, where and when to implement to achieve this. In this context, the Elaborate for early public insight of the Master Plan of Belgrade 2041 was analysed through document analysis and comparison methods, to determine whether and how climate mitigation was addressed. The project Climate Action for Belgrade, completed at the Faculty of Geography in Belgrade during the fall semester of 2023/2024, served as a reference point. It was one of the local projects within the Global Climate Geodesign Challenge, which is being implemented since 2022 by International Geodesign Collaboration and Liechtenstein Institute for Strategic Development (LISD) with the companies Esri and Geodesign Hub. All local projects follow the predefined geodesign methodological framework and digital technology, as well as LISD's domains and climate actions directory. The comparative analysis of the Elaborate and the project revealed that many planning measures in the Elaborate, although initially addressing other issues, could also contribute to climate mitigation. However, the potential to contribute to this goal has not been fully utilized in many areas, leaving opportunities for further enhancement through innovative and proactive approaches, not only in climate mitigation but also sustainable urban development context.
(Dis)conformity between demographic and spatial development at the local level: The example of the City of Čačak
Authors: Nikolić Teodora , Petrić Jasna , Njegić Tanja
Published: November 2024

The article is based on the results of the demographic development study conducted for the General urban plan of Čačak 2035, which included the city centre and settlements in the suburbs. The basic results of the study pointed to a contradiction between demographic development and the construction of new housing units. Despite the population decline at the city level, but also in all individual settlements (58) within the city, the number of housing units continued to increase during the last census period. In order to gain a better insight into the demographic trends and housing needs in the city of Čačak, the paper analyses not only the population movement and changes in the number and structure of households and housing units, but also factors such as the representation of families by type and the structure of the population (aged 15 and over) by marital status, which influenced the shaping of the above changes and needs in the beginning of the 21st century. In order to better understand the uneven distribution of the observed phenomena and processes, the spatial coverage of the study was extended to the entire city of Čačak.
Public environmental protection policy at the local level: The example of the Municipality of Vlasotince
Authors: Filipović Dejan , Duškov Ljubica
Published: November 2024

Public policy means the adoption and implementation of public decisions by those in power to solve the problem of pollution as a problem of general importance to society. One of the basic documents of public policy at the local level when it comes to the environment is the environmental protection program with an action plan. This document provides an opportunity to properly identify problems, appropriately allocate resources, capacities and funding, and improve the environment through effective implementation, adequate funding and decision-making on the distribution of limited resources. The Environmental Protection Program of the Municipality of Vlasotince with the Action Plan is a strategic document prepared for the period from 2023 to 2029. It was prepared in consensus with all interested stakeholders and primarily covers the area of environmental protection and improvement, but also aspects of economic and social development. The document was prepared to guide the development of environmental protection policy in the municipality of Vlasotince and it examined the state of environmental factors, environmental risk factors, trends and defined priorities for the next period. The paper presents the experience and specifics of creating the program.
Community hygiene of markets in the territory of the urban settlement of Belgrade (Serbia)
Authors: Samardžić Ivan , Filipović Dejan , Blagajac Irena , Mirković-Svitlica Andrijana
Published: November 2024

The subject of this research represents the community hygiene problems of markets in the territory of the urban settlement of Belgrade. Markets can be closed or open, multifunctional or "market-squares", then commodity markets, car markets, cattle and quantum markets. In order to determine the current situation, planning documents were analyzed and field research was carried out. Apart from the extensive spatial management documentation of the City of Belgrade, the Plan for general regulation of market network in the area of General plan of Belgrade ("Official Gazette of the City of Belgrade", no. 67/13) defines the unique management and development of the market system in Belgrade urban settlement. Markets in the Belgrade territory are managed by PUK "Gradske pijace", PUK "Poslovni centar Zemun", as well as by municipal enterprises. Dominant community hygiene problems in market areas are caused by inadequate infrastructure, inadequate waste management, increased noise, traffic jams, lack of parking spaces and inadequate communal infrastructure. The most of Belgrade's markets need to be reconstructed, which would eliminate community hygiene and environmental protection problems. The goal of this research is to determine the recent state of the markets within the borders of the urban settlement of Belgrade, but also to analyze problems in the management system. It is possible to reduce or eliminate community hygiene problems by reconstructing the markets, but also by changing and redefining inadequate planning documents.
Development of nuclear energy in the European Union and geographical determinants of planning the location of nuclear energy infrastructures in Serbia
Authors: Grčić Mirko
Published: November 2024

Today, when traditional energy has entered the phase of "ecological braking" and decarbonization of energy technologies, there is a transition of renewable sources and a "nuclear renaissance". In this regard, a "nuclear dilemma" appears in Serbia as well. After the question of whether to build a nuclear power plant, the question of location - where to build a nuclear power plant - is one of the most important when it comes to its fi t into the physical environment and social environment, and as such belongs to the circle of interest of spatial planners. Planning the choice of the location of a nuclear power plant requires a comprehensive scientific investigation of certain aspects and criteria (economic, technical, environmental, etc.). The purpose of such surveys is to identify possible threats to the safety of a facility in a given area, as well as to determine the degree of environmental impact. The results of the location research are reflected in the preparation of laws and bylaws, as well as planning, strategic and other documents and political decisions, which precede the construction of such facilities. Therefore, in the orientation choice of technology and place for the construction of a nuclear power plant, specialists in a wide range of disciplines participate, among which spatial planners have a synthetic role and importance, as well as state authorities of different territorial levels related to spatial planning and regional policy. Geographers and spatial planners, who are experts in the field of site studies, should be involved from the outset in the teams for the preparation of the location regulations and reports, which must be in line with the recommendations of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Green transition and local communities in Serbia: The example of the first cooperative rooftop solar power plant on Mt. Stara Planina
Authors: Lukić Milica , Petrović Saša
Published: November 2024

By signing the Declaration on Green Transition, the countries of the Western Balkans committed themselves to completely stop the production of energy from coal by 2050. Nevertheless, the green transition presents great challenges for the Republic of Serbia, especially for its economically weakened and demographically desolate rural and mountain areas. At the moment, energy production in Serbia is still very centralized. However, to achieve a green and fair transition, it needs to be decentralized and democratized. An example of good practice in Serbia, where successful cooperation between citizens, the cooperative, and the local self-government was achieved, is the first cooperative rooftop solar power plant that was built in August 2023. Thanks to the signing of a contract between the City of Pirot and the Elektropionir Energy Cooperative, two 5kW solar power plants were built on the roof surfaces of two buildings (in the Temska and Dojkinci settlement). What sets this project apart from all others, is that the investors of the power plants were citizens - both residents of the Temska and Dojkinci settlements, as well as all other solidary citizens of Serbia and the wider region. Through the crowdfunding campaign, the money needed for the design and construction of the power plant was collected, and during the next 25 years, all finance generated from the production and sale of electricity will be allocated to local associations and NGOs for the implementation of projects and activities, which will improve the local community.
Planning of geothermal energy utilization in the City of Niš
Authors: Jovanović Aleksandar
Published: November 2024

Niš is rich in Renewable Energy Sources (RES). The geothermal potential, with geothermal manifestations with a flow of 45 l/s, temperature of 38.9 degrees at Suva Banja and the Main Spring of Niška Banja, are indicated. There are several geothermal manifestations in the city's rural periphery too. Finally, solar energy potential with an average capacity of 2200 hours of insolation per year is indicated in Nis. Despite these potentials, Niš does not have any organized geothermal or solar power plants on the territory of the city. On the other hand, the costs for heating and cooling have been rising, with the development of certain city parts. Finally, in the context of Niš' independence from energy sources, and in terms of energy and spatial planning and the European integration of the Nis region, the city does not have a clearly defined strategy or set priorities despite its wish to join the EU space. In the urban strategy of the City that is currently in force, geothermal energy is neglected in urban planning on its territory, whereby the potential of geothermal energy is mentioned but its utilization postponed. In contrast to this, the long-term goal of energy transition should be realized, for example through a pilot project of supplying smaller parts of the city with local resources. The results determine under which conditions the energy security of the City can be achieved. They also argue that through planning of the utilization of geothermal energy, in accordance with the umbrella strategies of Serbia, in order to achieve SDGs and be supported by partner stakeholders such as Germany, Singapore or France, long-term goal planning is a necessity. The strategies are in accordance with the City of Nis' path towards the green agenda and created upon the existing cultural landscape of Nis.
Unreal Engine in spatial planning
Authors: Jovanović Dušica , Peulić Aleksandar , Stojković Sanja
Published: November 2024

Today, the creation of 3D models is widely used in various activities and scientific fields. The use of such models has found its place in architecture, spatial planning, civil engineering, environmental protection and many other areas where accurate information about space is needed. They are of great importance for spatial planning and predicting the development of processes in space that can contribute significantly to the quality of human life. It is possible to add a fourth component (time) to the 3D model so that we can see how a process would or could develop during a certain period of time. This approach is intended to show how information technologies can help us in responsible planning as well as in emergency situations. The article presents a practical example of a 3D environment with a focus on its use in spatial planning using the open source software Unreal Engine.