In the race to net-zero, policy makers face the challenge of accelerating both, the digital and green transitions. The Western Balkans (WB6) are no exception. Shifting towards a carbon-neutral economy that leverages digital technologies to improve competitiveness, resilience, sustainability and well-being brings new opportunities, particularly for the SME sector.
Despite the region's advancements and commitment to digitalisation – from digital infrastructure to e-governance – Western Balkan economies often lag behind their peers, in the EU and the OECD, in adopting more advanced digital transformation technologies.
Simultaneously, as one of the regions in Europe most affected by air pollution and carbon dependency, the Western Balkans must ensure that the digital transformation of its businesses is not detrimental to a greener, more sustainable and resilient future.
