In Kumanovo, the municipal environmental inspectorates operate under significant limitations that compromise their effectiveness in safeguarding the environment. The key challenges include a chronic shortage of qualified staff, outdated and insufficient inspection equipment, and a lack of logistical and financial resources. This institutional undercapacity leads to poor enforcement of environmental laws, minimal oversight of polluters, and rare sanctioning of violators. Industrial zones, illegal waste disposal sites, and urban air and noise pollution remain largely unaddressed. As a result, citizens are exposed to increased health risks, environmental degradation, and a visibly declining quality of life. Additionally, the lack of transparency and communication from local institutions erodes public trust and civic engagement on environmental issues.

The initiative addresses this systemic problem by first conducting structured interviews with municipal inspectors, local government officials, and environmental stakeholders, alongside a survey of citizens’ perceptions and concerns. This data will identify key bottlenecks and areas for urgent improvement. The findings will inform a targeted public awareness campaign that will emphasize the importance of well-functioning inspection services for sustainable urban living. By mobilizing public opinion and pressure, the initiative aims to catalyze institutional response and long-term investment in the capacities of the municipal environmental inspectorates, ultimately leading to more effective environmental governance in Kumanovo.