Local communities protest wind farm and quarry projects

Residents in Montenegro and Croatia are organizing petitions to block industrial projects they claim will devastate local ecosystems and economies.

In Montenegro, villagers near the Kučajevica hill are opposing a plan by Wind Europe MNE to construct the Njegovuđa wind farm near Žabljak. The project involves 14 turbines, approximately 200 meters tall. Locals fear the construction will destroy the natural habitats of protected species, including the bearded vulture and the western capercaillie, while also harming rural tourism and agriculture. The Agency for Environmental Protection is expected to conduct an environmental impact assessment.

In Croatia, residents of several villages, including Lađevica and Krković, have launched a petition against the opening of the Velika Kremenica quarry. The project, linked to investor Transport Beton Lubina d. o. o., faces opposition due to concerns over air quality, dust, and noise from heavy machinery. Petitioners are also worried about the impact on local agriculture—specifically olive groves and vineyards—as well as potential damage to groundwater, local roads, and the region's tourism potential.