On Tuesday, May 20th, at 10 AM, the final conference of the project “Sustainable Management of Crop Residues to Improve Air Quality and the Environment” was held at the “Master” Congress Center of the Novi Sad Fair. The event, part of the Fund for local development within the “SDGs for ALL” Platform, was organized by the Green Sad Association in cooperation with its partner organization, the Entrepreneurs’ Club of the Municipality of Ruma. The conference gathered 40 participants, including representatives from institutions, businesses, the media, and civil society organizations. Notably, women made up the majority of attendees—25 compared to 15 men.
The conference was opened by Mr. Miloš Vukelić from the Ministry of Environmental Protection, who emphasized that the project’s objectives align directly with the Ministry’s national campaign “Don’t Burn Stubble.” He highlighted the importance of such initiatives for local communities and for translating policy into practice.

On behalf of the Green Sad Association, project coordinator Nevena Brdarić presented the research findings, implemented activities, and a proposed section of the Local Action Plan (LAP) for the Municipality of Ruma focused on sustainable crop residue management. Brdarić emphasized:
“Crop residues are not waste—they are a valuable resource. Rich in organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, they represent a natural asset that can be returned to the soil to enhance its quality. Farmers recognize this potential, but they need support—primarily through education and access to viable methods. Civil society plays a crucial role here, serving as a bridge between on-the-ground needs and systemic solutions.”

The program continued with the following speakers:
Bogdan Žigić, General Director of BIOFOR, who spoke about the importance of humus content and soil quality, presenting composting as a key alternative to burning crop residues.
A representative from AgroDron, who demonstrated new possibilities for ecological monitoring of soil, air, and crops through drone technology equipped with sensors and precision spraying systems.
Following the official part of the program, a cocktail reception and informal discussion took place, allowing participants—especially representatives of agricultural media—to exchange experiences, share challenges, and propose further steps to enhance cooperation and local policy development.

The aim of the conference was to encourage a systemic approach to addressing the issue of crop residue burning and to promote sustainable alternatives. The presented LAP proposal will be submitted to the Municipality of Ruma as a civil society recommendation, with the goal of initiating continued collaboration and the establishment of concrete measures in the interest of the community, the soil, and the air we all breathe.