The Faculty of Economics, University of Montenegro hosted the CROSS-REIS Info Day 2026 on 17 April, bringing together students, academic staff, and external stakeholders to present project achievements and promote sustainable practices. Organized ahead of Sustainability Week and Earth Day, the event highlighted the project’s commitment to environmental protection and citizen engagement.
The Info Day opened with a presentation by Prof. Ana Lalević Filipović, CROSS-REIS coordinator at the University of Montenegro, who introduced the project’s objectives, key achievements, and planned activities for the coming period. Particular emphasis was placed on the project’s three core themes (circular economy, waste management, and urban biodiversity) as well as ongoing efforts to strengthen research excellence and collaboration across partner institutions.
A dedicated session featured a presentation on green finance, where Jelena Rakčević (Green Wave) discussed the role of green bonds in supporting environmental initiatives and sustainable investments.
One of the highlights of the event was the award ceremony of the “Green Challenge,” a student initiative implemented within the CROSS-REIS Living Lab. The competition recognized students who demonstrated outstanding environmental responsibility through waste collection activities. The top performers, Aleksandar Ivanović (1st place), Hana Nišić (2nd place), and Sofija Radović (3rd place), were awarded for their contributions, showcasing the impact of student engagement in promoting circular practices.
The second part of the programme featured a panel discussion on “Green Transition and ESG Governance: Aligning Global Policies with Corporate Responsibility.” Moderated by Prof. Milijana Novović Burić, the panel brought together representatives from the financial and professional sectors, including Maja Krstić (CKB Bank), Anastasija Boljević (Institute of Certified Accountants), Biljana Rašović (Ernst & Young Montenegro), and Žana Martinović (Uniqa Insurance). The discussion explored the role of ESG frameworks, corporate responsibility, and financial institutions in supporting the transition toward sustainable and regenerative economic models.
The Info Day concluded with an interactive workshop on “Digitalization for a Sustainable Future: New Generations, New Financial Habits.” Led by Petar Kontić (CKB Bank), the workshop introduced participants to digital tools and financial products designed to support sustainable lifestyles and responsible financial decision-making.
By combining project insights, student recognition, expert dialogue, and practical learning, the CROSS-REIS Info Day 2026 successfully reinforced the importance of engaging citizens and young generations in sustainability transitions. The event demonstrated how academic initiatives, when connected with real-world action and stakeholder collaboration, can contribute to building more inclusive, resilient, and regenerative communities.