Montenegro Facing the Climate Challenge: Analysis 2020–2024

Data from the Environmental Protection Agency show a rise in temperatures, precipitation instability, and an increase in greenhouse gases contributing to climate change. During the five-year period, Montenegro has recorded continuous warming and increasing precipitation instability, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. All years are above the climate norm: 2020 and 2021 were predominantly extremely warm, while 2022–2024 range from “warm” to “extremely warm.” Precipitation varies from very dry to very wet periods, indicating growing climate extremes and risks to agriculture, water resources, and forest ecosystems. Imports of ozone-depleting substances (HCFC-22) have continuously decreased: from 3,087 kg in 2020 to 480–627 kg in the 2022–2024 period. At the same time, imports of alternative HFC gases have increased in 2022–2024 (52–67 t), contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, although reducing the negative impact on the ozone layer. The sectoral inventory shows that the energy sector and industrial processes remain the main sources of CO₂ emissions, while agriculture and land-use change contribute to methane and nitrous oxide emissions. The Agency’s results clearly indicate that the combination of continuous warming, unstable precipitation, and increasing HFC emissions requires urgent action: adapting agriculture and forestry, reducing industrial emissions, and accelerating the transition to sustainable energy. As an NGO dedicated to environmental protection, we emphasize that the Agency’s data highlight the urgency of action. We recommend a transition to renewable energy sources, support for cleaner technologies in industry, adaptation of agriculture and forestry to climate challenges, rational use of HFC gases, and active citizen engagement. Timely and coordinated measures can reduce the risk of extreme weather events and protect ecosystems and quality of life in Montenegro.