The report “Environmental Situation in Kosovo - 2002” was compiled by a group of experts from departments and divisions within the Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning of the Provisional Institution of Self Government of Kosovo (PISG). The documents presented in the report are the result of observations, researches and comparisons with other relevant documents and are carried out by experts in their respective fields. We consider that the problems treated in this report are major and that they require permanent treatment and solutions from our ministry and government. We tried to illustrate the topics using graphs and charts as well as tables in order to make it easily accessible for experts and laypersons alike.

This report is limited in scope due to the lack of updated information, taking into account transitional period in Kosovo. We attempted to use valid information. That is why there are many comparisons with information from different sources. We tried to present data which presents the real state of environment in Kosovo.  

The work for this report was carried out within the framework of the Regional Environmental Reconstruction Program for South Eastern Europe countries (REReP 1.15)

The goal of drafting this report was to have a complete overview on environmental situation in Kosovo. If we managed to do so, then for other readers will be easy to focus their attention and care on environmental problems presented in the report. Also the report will be used as a proper manner to inform people dealing seriously with environmental issues to consider options to work on such activities. We hope that this report can be a useful tool for for local and international institutions and help focus their capacities toward major problems solving.

The main objective for drafting the report was to include the major environmental problems. The report will be used as a basis for compilation of medium term and long-term strategies for environmental protection. The report also will be used as a basis to inform staff of ministry and other ministries responsible for any aspect of Kosovo’s environment.

Finally we wish to thank everyone who offered support and helped us during the compilation of the report. Especially we are grateful to representatives of UNEP/GRID-Arendal for their initiative, comments and donation. 

We are happy to receive comments, suggestions in regard to problems treated in the report, as we hope to supplement and to enrich the report in the future. 

Please contact us in the following e-mail address zeqir_mesp@yahoo.com; tush_beta@yahoo.com

Pristina, 2003                                                                                       Drafted by