engleski

Economic and social significance of environmental protection and occupational safety - example of Serbia and Croatia

The goal of this research is to establish the economic and social significance of environmental protection and occupational safety on the state level based on the analysis of the current situation in Serbia and Croatia. Descriptive methods were used in the course of research, combined with an analysis of primary and secondary sources and statistical analysis of publicly available data and indicators of the current situation and investment in the protection of working and living environments in Serbia and Croatia, as well as a comparative analysis of problem areas in both states. The hypotheses have been confirmed, according to which environmental protection and occupational safety have a specific and great economic and social significance in both Serbia and Croatia. Numerous statistical and macroeconomic indicators that are related to the issues of environmental protection and occupational safety confirm their economic aspect which is of such level of significance that it can affect the national economic and social development. Specific characteristics arise from socioeconomic and geographical characteristics of Serbia and Croatia. Environmental protection and occupational safety are especially brought into a relationship with corporate social responsibility and responsible management which have implications on sustainable development and the future of countries preparing for accession or already in the phase of joining the European Union.

economic development; environmental protection; occupational safety; social development; sustainable development

Research reported here is part of the project titled "Research and Development of Energy Efficient and Environment Friendly Polygeneration Systems based on Renewable Energy Sources Utilization" III 42006, funded by Serbian Ministry of Education and Science.