Denmark is internationally renowned for its competencies within, and experience with, transitioning to a green society. On this backdrop, Croatian and Slovenian cities showed large interest in Danish energy efficient and smart city solutions last week, during a Danish business delegation visit to the two countries.

Smart municipalities and energy efficient industries
During the visit, two business events were organised in Zagreb and Ljubljana. The main theme of the events was smart urban solutions. In continuation of this, the themes centred on smart municipalities/cities and energy efficient industries.

Local and regional government units -mayors of municipalities and cities- managers of utility companies, and companies working within the field of energy and environment were invited to come together and share best practice. To be inspired.

The program consisted of thematic panel discussions of both Croatian and Danish representatives of local government units, as well as leading companies in smart city solutions. Amongst participants and keynote speakers were Mayor Steen Christiansen from Albertslund Municipality, Chrief Project Manager, Kim Brostrøm, from Gate21 and Executive Director, Finn Mortensen, of State of Green.

Companies such as Danfoss, Grundfos, Logstor, Maersk Line, Ramboll, ROCKWOOL, Velux also participated as did the Danish organisation Loop City, as well as the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who were the driving force behind the initiative.

-The events in Slovenia and Croatia have, yet again, shown close collaboration between Danish companies and local communities, states Zarko Masanovic, Head of Trade Department at the Danish Embassy in Zagreb.

-Through case stories as well as interactive panel discussions, Danish companies have highlighted their expertise in smart urban solutions and given an answer as to why Denmark is the leading country for green technology know-how. It is expected that Danish companies will continue to work on many projects in both Slovenia and Croatia thus strengthening business relations between the countries and maintaining the good image of Denmark in local markets. The events were covered by local media in both countries which resulted in nation-wide outreach and interest. Last but not least the local sides have shown interest for continuation of cooperation at state/regional level in specific areas one of which are islands and coastal towns, which will be the theme of the events that the Embassy of Denmark will organise in 2018.