Urban gardens across Serbia enhanced with new amenities as part of the “Niklo kao ja” project

Solar-powered benches, libraries, and additional plantings bring new value to existing green oases

A1 Serbia, in collaboration with the civic association Ekonaut and local municipalities, continued the implementation of the “Niklo kao ja” project in 2025, focusing on upgrading existing urban gardens across Serbia.

In 20 cities, the existing gardens were equipped with benches featuring integrated SmartBeam solar panels and outdoor mini-libraries, while regular maintenance and seasonal plantings were carried out at all locations. These upgrades added value and functionality to the urban gardens, transforming them into spaces for community gathering, relaxation, and exchange.

The SmartBeam benches use solar energy to provide wireless and USB-C charging for devices, along with integrated LED lighting and a QR code displaying CO₂ savings. The panels operate fully independently, without connection to the power grid, combining technology, sustainability, and everyday citizen needs in a single urban spot.

The outdoor libraries operate on a book-sharing principle—citizens can borrow, donate, or exchange books. The initial collection was provided by A1 Serbia, and citizens are encouraged to gradually expand it. A special visual identity for the new features was created by street artist Jana Danilović, known for works that merge art, nature, and urban space, painting benches and libraries in the spirit of community and environmental connection.

Monitoring and analysis of similar urban garden locations since their creation have revealed several positive changes. Vegetated areas showed an increased capacity to absorb excess water by 30–40%, contributing to resilience against heavy rainfall and reducing surface water retention. As plants grew and developed foliage, airborne pollutant particles decreased by 20–30%, captured by the leaves.

The gardens also saw a strong recovery of biodiversity, with the presence of soil microorganisms increasing by over 50%, and a rise in insects, birds, and other small organisms by 30–40% on average compared to pre-garden conditions. Simultaneously, invasive plant species decreased significantly—up to 90% in some locations, making the gardens stable and resilient microhabitats within city centres.

From a social perspective, urban gardens have become regular gathering spots for citizens—from pet owners and walkers to new visitors attracted by charging benches and outdoor libraries—highlighting their important role in local community life.

The project engaged over 150 experts and partners, and in 2025 alone, more than 830 plant seedlings of various species were planted, along with accompanying elements such as birdhouses, insect hotels, stone structures, stumps, and protective fences.

Through its ESG strategy, A1 Serbia continuously invests in long-term sustainability goals. This approach encompasses not only projects addressing climate risks and biodiversity protection, like “Niklo kao ja,” but also long-term decarbonization plans, increasing the share of sustainable energy from own production, improving energy efficiency in operations, and adhering to circular economy principles. As a leading prosumer in the telecommunications sector, A1 has installed 6,470 solar panels at over 330 locations, equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of more than 750 households. Investments in renewable energy are part of A1 Group’s strategic commitment to climate neutrality by 2030.