AGP Executive Report

Hydrogen Push in Slovenia: ELES, Plinovodi and Yokogawa signed an MoU to build a hydrogen ecosystem, including a demonstration hydrogen plant linked to electricity and gas networks and digital tools for coordinated operation—aimed at stronger energy security and a low-carbon hydrogen sector. Renewables on a Closed Landfill: HSE received a building permit for the Zagorje ob Savi solar plant on the former Kamnolom Zagorje waste landfill, with 1.38 MWp capacity plus battery storage, supported partly by the Just Transition Fund. Climate Alarm for Triglav: Slovenia’s Triglav Glacier is nearing disappearance after decades of retreat, with unusually low snow and early melting likely leaving no ice by the end of the season. Karst Protection Spotlight: Slovenia will mark the first UNESCO International Day of Caves and Karst, with a conference in Postojna Cave focused on sustainable cave and karst management. Water as a Balkan Security Issue: A new analysis argues drought and cross-border water plans are turning rivers into geopolitical leverage, calling for an EU-backed Balkan Water Pact with shared data and environmental flows. RTV Slovenia Independence Under Threat: Journalists and media groups warn proposed changes to Slovenia’s RTV Act could dismantle the public broadcaster’s editorial and financial independence. Croatia Toxic Waste Protests: Tens of thousands protested illegal hazardous waste dumping in Lika, with police arrests tied to alleged “forever chemicals” and microplastics concerns. Sustainable Tourism in Dubrovnik: Cities including Ljubljana discussed smarter, resident-focused tourism management under an EU smart tourism programme.

Hydrogen Push in Slovenia: ELES, Plinovodi and Yokogawa signed an MoU to build a hydrogen ecosystem, including a demonstration plant linked to electricity and gas networks and digital tools for coordinated operation—aimed at stronger energy security and a low-carbon hydrogen sector. Solar on a Landfill: HSE received a building permit for a 1.38 MWp solar plant at the closed Kamnolom Zagorje landfill, with battery storage and improved water management, supported partly by the Just Transition Fund. Climate Impact at Triglav: Slovenia’s Triglav Glacier is nearing disappearance, with researchers warning that unusually early snow loss and extreme summer heat could leave no ice by the end of the melt season. RTV Slovenia Independence Under Threat: Journalists’ groups say proposed amendments to the RTV Act would dismantle the public broadcaster’s financial and editorial independence, raising alarms about government control. Karst & Caves Spotlight: Slovenia marks the first UNESCO International Day of Caves and Karst with an international conference in Postojna Cave and events focused on sustainable cave and karst management. Tourism Sustainability in Dubrovnik: Ljubljana was among cities at a Dubrovnik dialogue on smarter, more sustainable tourism that protects residents’ quality of life. Croatia Toxic Waste Protests: Tens of thousands protested against illegal toxic waste in Lika, with police arrests tied to alleged hazardous dumping.

Hydrogen Push in Slovenia: ELES, Plinovodi and Yokogawa signed an MoU to build a hydrogen ecosystem, including a demonstration plant linked to electricity and gas networks and digital tools for coordinated operation—plus portable hydrogen units for emergency backup. Renewables on a Closed Landfill: HSE got the building permit for the 1.38 MWp Zagorje ob Savi solar plant on the former Kamnolom Zagorje waste landfill, with battery storage and support from the Just Transition Fund. Climate Impact at Triglav: Slovenia’s Triglav Glacier is likely to lose its remaining ice by the end of the melt season, with unusually low snow and extreme summer heat accelerating disappearance. Karst Protection Spotlight: Slovenia marks UNESCO International Day of Caves and Karst for the first time, with a Postojna Cave ceremony and an international conference on sustainable cave and karst management. Tourism Sustainability in Practice: Dubrovnik hosted a North-South Dialogue of 18 European cities on smarter, resident-friendly tourism, with Ljubljana sharing how it involves locals in tourism decisions. Adriatic Fisheries Cooperation: A new GFCM technical unit in Split aims to strengthen science-based, sustainable fisheries management across the Adriatic, including Slovenia. Toxic Waste Fallout in Lika: Reports and protests keep pressure on authorities after hazardous waste dumping raised fears of long-term pollution and groundwater contamination.

Hydrogen Push in Slovenia: ELES, Plinovodi and Japan’s Yokogawa signed an MoU to build a hydrogen ecosystem, including a demo plant tied into electricity and gas networks and digital tools for coordinated operation, with portable hydrogen units for emergency backup and EV fast-charging. Climate Impact in the Alps: Slovenia’s Triglav Glacier is likely to lose its remaining ice by the end of the melting season, after unusually early snow loss and record summer heat; Skuta Glacier is also breaking into smaller ice patches. Renewables on a Former Landfill: HSE received a building permit for a 1.38 MWp solar plant at the closed Kamnolom Zagorje landfill site, with battery storage and support from the Just Transition Fund. Severe Weather Alert: A major severe weather outbreak is forecast across parts of the western and northern Mediterranean, with thunderstorms and large hail risk extending to Slovenia and Croatia. EU Energy Governance: ACER’s new director, Christof Lessenich, is pitching MEPs on keeping the agency funded, arguing energy data and enforcement capacity are key for affordability and market oversight. Public Media Independence: Journalists’ federations warn proposed changes to Slovenia’s RTV Act could dismantle the broadcaster’s editorial and financial independence. Karst Protection Spotlight: Slovenia marks UNESCO International Day of Caves and Karst for the first time, with a conference in Postojna and a central ceremony in Postojna Cave.

Severe Weather Alert for Slovenia and the Adriatic: A two-day severe weather outbreak is forecast from the Balearics and northern Italy to the Alps, with Slovenia and Croatia in the hit list for damaging thunderstorms, large hail, strong winds and flash-flood risk. Toxic Waste Protest in the Region: Tens of thousands marched in Zagreb demanding urgent cleanup of illegal hazardous waste dumped in Lika, with protesters calling for accountability and a halt to waste imports tied to shipments from Slovenia, Italy and Germany. Adriatic Fisheries Cooperation: The GFCM set up a new technical unit in Split to strengthen science-based, sustainable fisheries management across the Adriatic, including Slovenia. EU Greenwashing Rules: New EU requirements under EmpCo are set to take effect on Sept. 27, tightening how environmental and circularity claims can be marketed to consumers. Slovenia and Tesla FSD: Slovenia authorized Tesla Full Self-Driving (Supervised) on public roads, adding to a patchwork of EU approvals ahead of an October vote. Circular Materials Push: The US DOE is funding work to use polyester-eating enzymes to turn textile waste into new polyester. Local Green Tourism Spotlight: Slovenia’s Ljubljana is selected for the European Capitals of Tourism 2027 competition, with sustainability and accessibility among the judging criteria.

Cycling & Cities: Cambridge tops a Europe-wide “best for cycling” ranking for 2026, with Copenhagen and Vienna close behind—another reminder that bike-friendly planning can cut emissions and make daily life easier. Adriatic Fisheries: The GFCM set up a new technical unit in Split to strengthen science-based, sustainable fisheries management across the Adriatic, including Slovenia. Severe Weather Watch: A two-day severe storm outbreak is forecast to hit parts of the Mediterranean and then spread to Northern Italy, Slovenia and Croatia, with hail, damaging winds and flash-flood risk. Toxic Waste Protests: Tens of thousands protested in Zagreb demanding urgent cleanup of illegal toxic waste in Croatia’s Lika region, with calls to halt waste imports tied to dumping linked to Slovenia and other countries. EU Tourism & Sustainability: The European Commission advanced Ljubljana among 16 finalists for European Capitals of Tourism 2027, spotlighting sustainability and accessibility in the next stage. Slovenia Tech & Roads: Slovenia authorized Tesla Full Self-Driving (Supervised) on public roads, but the approval is tied to a sealed Dutch safety assessment—raising transparency questions ahead of an EU-wide vote. Energy Policy Staffing: EU energy directorate leadership is stretched after senior transfers, just as post-2030 energy planning ramps up. Local Climate Impacts: France’s drought and heat are already cutting champagne production sharply, a warning sign for wider regional agriculture, including reported maize yield losses in Slovenia.

Severe Weather Watch: A two-day severe weather outbreak is forecast for the western and northern Mediterranean into the Adriatic, with Slovenia and Croatia in the hit list for Wednesday–Thursday—expect large to giant hail, damaging winds, tornado risk and flash-flood potential, driven by humid air after the Mediterranean marine heatwave. Toxic Waste Protests: Tens of thousands of Croatians rallied in Zagreb demanding urgent cleanup of illegal toxic waste in the Lika region and calling for a halt to waste imports, with protesters alleging the material originated from Slovenia, Italy and Germany. Slovenia in the EU Spotlight: Slovenia’s transport authority has authorized Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) for public roads, making it the sixth EU country to clear the camera-only system—setting up a 28-day period before a wider EU decision. Circular Textiles Push: The US Department of Energy is funding a $3M effort to scale polyester-eating enzymes that could turn discarded textile waste into new polyester inputs. Green Tourism Recognition: Ljubljana is among the cities selected to advance in the European Capitals of Tourism 2027 competition, judged on sustainability, accessibility, digital innovation and support for cultural heritage. Energy Bureaucracy: The EU energy directorate is short-staffed after senior transfers, complicating work on post-2030 energy architecture and energy security. Climate Impacts on Food: Drought and heat are cutting European harvests—maize yields in Slovenia are estimated 50–70% lower, alongside major losses elsewhere. Local Event: Portorož will host the final major 470 event of the 2026 season (14–19 September), bringing nearly 30 crews for the Open European Trophy and Master’s Cup.

Hazardous Waste Protest in Croatia: Tens of thousands marched in Zagreb demanding urgent cleanup of illegally dumped toxic waste in the Lika region near Gospić, where about 35,000 tonnes (including medical and electronic waste) are alleged to have been imported from Slovenia, Italy and Germany; prosecutors say soil contamination is confirmed and PFAS (“forever chemicals”) have been detected in groundwater, while protesters call for a moratorium on waste imports and a national waste plan within 20 days. Slovenia in the spotlight for tourism: Ljubljana was selected to advance in the European Capitals of Tourism 2027 competition, with the EU judging cities on sustainability, accessibility and digital innovation alongside cultural heritage. Heat and drought hit food: Reports say scorching summer conditions have slashed grape harvests in France’s Champagne region and damaged crops across Europe, including estimates of major maize losses in Slovenia. RTV Slovenija funding fight: Journalists’ groups urged safeguards for RTV Slovenija’s independence and sustainable, predictable public funding amid proposed legal changes to governance and financing. Weather outlook: A severe weather shift is forecast across parts of Europe including Slovenia, followed by a sharp temperature drop, with risks of hail, damaging winds and flash flooding.

Severe Weather Alert for Slovenia and the Balkans: A new Atlantic-driven cold front is set to end Europe’s late-summer heat, sparking a severe thunderstorm outbreak from the Alps into Austria, Slovenia and Croatia, with risks of large hail, damaging winds, flash flooding and even brief tornadoes. Climate-hit Farming in the Region: Scorching summer conditions are already cutting harvests—France’s champagne output is expected to halve, and farmer estimates point to major maize losses including in Slovenia—adding pressure for faster adaptation and support. Toxic Waste Protest in Croatia (EU-wide spillover risk): Tens of thousands marched in Zagreb demanding urgent cleanup of illegally dumped hazardous waste in Lika near Gospić, where prosecutors report soil contamination and fears of groundwater harm; authorities are investigating waste imports linked to Slovenia, Italy and Germany. RTV Slovenija Funding and Independence: Slovenian and international journalist groups are calling for safeguards in proposed legal changes to protect RTV Slovenija’s editorial independence and stable, predictable public funding. Nuclear Preparedness Check in Finland: The IAEA reviewed Finland’s nuclear and radiological emergency readiness, including offsite response arrangements around its nuclear sites. EV Market Consumer Protection: AVILOO expanded its battery warranty to more European markets, including Slovenia, aiming to boost trust in used electric vehicle battery health claims.

Climate Impacts on Food: Scorching summer heat is already reshaping harvests in Europe, with France’s champagne output forecast to be roughly halved and maize losses estimated at 50–70% in Slovenia and up to 70% in some unirrigated areas. Public Media Independence: Slovenian and international journalist groups are urging safeguards for RTV Slovenija’s editorial independence and stable, predictable funding as proposed legal changes would shift governance and financing. Hazardous Waste Crisis: Tens of thousands protested in Zagreb over illegal toxic waste dumped in Croatia’s Lika region near Gospić, with claims of soil contamination and calls for a nationwide waste plan and an import moratorium. Winter Weather Outlook: Europe’s coming winter is expected to be warmer and wetter, with El Niño driving higher odds of mild Atlantic conditions but still leaving room for sharp cold spells. EU Green Tech Push: The EU has launched a large-scale critical minerals recycling venture, CIRCUIT4EU, aiming to boost circular supply for the clean-tech transition. Adriatic Fisheries Science: A new Adriatic Sea fisheries unit was inaugurated in Split to strengthen science-based, sustainable fisheries management as climate pressure grows on marine ecosystems.

Hazardous Waste Crisis in Croatia: Tens of thousands marched in Zagreb demanding urgent cleanup of illegally dumped toxic waste in Croatia’s Lika region near Gospić, where about 35,000 tonnes (including medical and electronic waste) were reportedly buried after imports from Italy, Germany and Slovenia; protesters want a moratorium on waste imports and a nationwide waste-management plan within 20 days, citing soil contamination and PFAS (“forever chemicals”) risks. Climate Signals for Europe’s Winter: A forecast points to a warmer, wetter-than-average 2026–2027 winter across Europe, driven by a strengthening El Niño, with brief but sharp cold spells still possible. Slovenia Tourism Watch: Slovenia’s summer tourism rose to 2.2 million arrivals and 6.3 million overnight stays (+7%), with Germany leading demand and direct US flights next spring flagged as a potential boost. Circular Economy Push: The EU launched CIRCUIT4EU to recycle critical raw materials from electronics, targeting recovery from printed circuit boards and components to support the EU’s recycling benchmarks. Nuclear Safety Update (Finland): An IAEA review found strengths in Finland’s emergency preparedness but urged tighter national coordination and improved radiation emergency planning and lab capacity.

Hazardous Waste Crisis: Tens of thousands marched in Zagreb demanding urgent cleanup of an illegal toxic waste dump in Croatia’s Lika region near Gospić, where prosecutors say soil contamination has spread beyond the site and PFAS “forever chemicals” were detected in groundwater; authorities are investigating imports allegedly linked to Slovenia, Italy and Germany, with protesters calling for a moratorium on waste imports and a nationwide waste-management plan within 20 days. Climate Outlook: Europe is bracing for a warmer, wetter-than-average winter 2026–2027, with brief but sharp cold spells possible as El Niño strengthens. Slovenia Tourism: Slovenia’s summer tourism hit 2.2 million arrivals and 6.3 million overnight stays in July–August, up 7% year-on-year, with Germany leading demand. Circular Economy & Recycling: The EU launched CIRCUIT4EU to recycle critical raw materials from electronics like laptops and e-scooters, aiming to boost supply security through new recycling tech. Nuclear Safety: An IAEA review found Finland should strengthen coordination and emergency planning for nuclear and radiological incidents. Marine Sustainability: A new Adriatic Sea fisheries science unit was inaugurated in Split to support sustainable, science-based fisheries management.

Hazardous Waste Protest: Tens of thousands marched in Zagreb over illegal toxic waste dumped near Gospić, with protesters demanding a moratorium on waste imports and a national cleanup plan within 20 days. The scandal centers on alleged imports from Italy, Germany and Slovenia, including plastics and toxic hospital waste, with soil contamination reported and fears for groundwater and public health. Heat and Risk: In Slovenia’s wider region, extreme heat is also making headlines: the Vuelta was forced to shorten a stage after 40°C-plus temperatures, a reminder of how quickly weather can disrupt plans and safety. Slovenia’s Climate Pressure: Slovenia recorded its hottest summer on record in 2026, and ARSO warns of extremely severe drought; Triglav glacier is under severe threat and could disappear by early October. Circular Economy Push: The EU launched CIRCUIT4EU, a Horizon Europe recycling venture to recover critical raw materials from electronics and magnets, aiming to boost circular supply chains. Adriatic Fisheries: A new FAO/GFCM Adriatic Sea technical unit was inaugurated in Split to strengthen science-based, sustainable fisheries management as climate impacts intensify.

Climate & Water Stress in Slovenia: Slovenia recorded its hottest summer on record in 2026, with temperatures averaging 2.8°C above the 1991–2020 norm, while an extremely severe drought threatens crops and the Triglav glacier could vanish by early October. Drought & Food Security in the Region: Hungary faces a major irrigation crisis—less than 3% of arable land is irrigated—pushing calls for rule reforms and faster drought adaptation. Circular Economy & EU Materials: The EU launched CIRCUIT4EU, a Horizon Europe recycling venture to recover critical raw materials from electronics, magnets and components, aiming to boost circular supply chains. Nuclear Safety Coordination: An IAEA review found Finland’s nuclear emergency preparedness needs stronger national coordination and a clearer radiation emergency plan, plus better lab capacity for environmental sampling. Marine Life & Fisheries: A new Adriatic Sea fisheries unit in Split will strengthen science-based, sustainable fisheries management as climate impacts intensify. Local Environment & Health Risks in Croatia: Tens of thousands protested in Gospic over hazardous waste illegally dumped and still not remediated, with concerns including PFAS contamination in groundwater. Slovenian Economy & Tourism Pressure: Slovenia’s tourism boom continues—2.2 million arrivals and 6.3 million overnight stays in July–August—raising both opportunities and sustainability questions for destinations like Bled and Ljubljana. Social Inclusion in Schools: A case of bullying of a Roma child in a Novo mesto primary school highlights ongoing discrimination and gaps in how schools respond.

Climate Extremes in Slovenia: Slovenia recorded its hottest summer on record in 2026, with temperatures averaging 2.8°C above the 1991–2020 norm, while an extremely severe drought threatens crops and the Triglav glacier could vanish by early October. Drought and Food Security: Hungary’s agriculture is under pressure too, with less than 3% of arable land irrigated; a new policy study argues for rule reforms and faster irrigation investment rather than more tariffs. Marine Life and Fisheries: A new Adriatic Sea fisheries science unit was inaugurated in Split to strengthen cooperation and science-based, sustainable management as climate impacts intensify. Circular Economy Push: The EU launched CIRCUIT4EU, a Horizon Europe project to recycle critical raw materials from electronics like laptops and e-scooters, aiming to boost the share of recycled materials by 2030. Energy Transition Tech: Kingston University leads work in a EU renovation overhaul project focused on energy-efficient building upgrades via “Renovation-as-a-Service.” Nuclear Preparedness: An IAEA review found Finland’s nuclear emergency readiness needs stronger national coordination and planning, including better radiation emergency plans and lab capacity.

Climate Reality Check: Slovenia logged its hottest summer on record in 2026, with temperatures averaging 2.8°C above the 1991–2020 norm and an extremely severe drought now threatening crops and water supplies; the Triglav glacier is under heavy pressure and could vanish by early October. Water & Farming Resilience: Hungary’s agriculture is feeling drought hard—less than 3% of arable land is irrigated—pushing calls for irrigation rule reform, faster approvals, and less politically steered subsidies. Circular Electronics: The EU launched CIRCUIT4EU to recover critical raw materials from printed circuit boards, magnets and electronics, aiming to boost recycling and cut reliance on imports. Renovation for Lower Emissions: A Kingston University-led Horizon Europe project (REMADE) will test “Renovation-as-a-Service” to upgrade energy-inefficient buildings across Europe using life-cycle tracking. Clean Mobility Power: HiPower 5.0 targets more efficient power electronics for electric mobility, aiming to reduce losses and use materials more responsibly. Local Green Culture: Slovenia’s National Gallery of Slovenia in Ljubljana is shortlisted for the European Art Museum Award, with sustainability and social impact among the judging themes.