Оn 15.10.2020 CED Florozon in cooperation with the NGO "Green.org" - Kochani held the fourth initiative of the National CSO Coalition in Hotel AleDar Kochani.
The purpose of the event was to address citizens problems related to the air pollution from Paper Mill factory, pollution of local fields and rivers due to improper discharge of wastewater, as well as the impact of small hydropower plants on the environment.
During the debate, it was emphasized that without joint cooperation between the civil society and local self-government, the existing problems cannot be solved. We must work on improving mutual communication and inter-sectorial cooperation to achieve common goals.
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Relevant services MUST urgently act upon preventing air pollution from Paper Mill factory, as well as detecting and sanctioning of local fields pollutants;
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Replacement of pellets as a fuel or URGENT installation of appropriate filters for elimination of harmful air emissions;
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Regarding the construction of the mini hydro power plant, the Municipality of Kocani and the civil society organizations are AGAINST it. Joint action must be taken to stop its construction through the application of one of the existing mechanisms for requesting public participation in decision-making process;
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Citizens have right to a healthy environment, have right to participate in decision-making processes on environmental issues and have right to access environmental information. Hence, the citizens should seek their exercise and be more proactive in submitting complaints in case of their violation. FLA is a mechanism that can be used for environmental issues and citizens can request free legal advice from registered associations, regional offices and legal clinics to act in violation of their constitutionally guaranteed rights to a healthy environment.