Bankwatch

Introduction

CEE Bankwatch Network is formed by 14 grassroots members in 12 countries of central and eastern Europe with almost 30 years of experience in transforming public finance and environmental and climate policies to work for people across Europe and beyond.

Work Program

Bankwatch’s work program will foster systemic transformation towards zero-carbon, resource-efficient, and biodiversity-rich economies in the EU by shifting the use of public finance in line with the objectives and targets of the European Green Deal.

Working Method

Bankwatch’s working method involves promoting public participation, transparency, expert-based, and citizen-led decision-making on EU-financed projects and plans. Our activities involve:

• Case-based research
• Expert analyses
• Awareness-raising
• Capacity building on international, national, and local levels in the EU and beyond

We provide platforms for citizens and local NGOs to reach the decision-makers with their concerns and proposals.

Work Packages

Our four Work Packages are:

1. Organisational Development
2. Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
   • Rapid decarbonisation of the energy sector (i.e., both electricity and heating)
   • Piloting of renewable 4th Generation district heating in the CEE region
3. Nature and Biodiversity
   • Proper implementation of EU environmental legislation and policies
   • Improving nature protection governance
   • Ensuring financing for nature and biodiversity protection
   • Restoration and development of the Natura 2000 and Emerald networks
4. Sustainable and Just Energy Transition
   • Increase contribution of the CEE region to the energy transition through addressing the bottlenecks for energy efficiency measures and community-driven renewables
   • EU funds and EIB financial instruments mobilisation for high-quality transformative investments
   • Enhance capacity of the local authorities to address local needs and reach the most vulnerable communities

Additional Objectives

Circular Economy and Quality of Life objectives of the LIFE programme will also be served through our thematic work package.