Business entities and local self-government as important actors of environmental policy

Within a society, not only citizens but also economic entities, social organizations and the state as a complex legal organization can play an important role in achieving common interests. Environmental policy cannot be implemented by just one ministry, one city, one company, environmental protection requires joint work. Today, Serbia is mature enough to take into account every aspect of the life of its citizens and establish harmony between the increase of people's living standards and the preservation of social peace with minimal environmental pollution. The paper analyzes the importance of both the private and public sectors in terms of implementing environmental policy and establishing a balance between economic progress and environmental protection. On the other hand, it is pointed out that the adoption and implementation of environmental legislation entails high costs and significant investments, which can be an insurmountable obstacle for countries with poor economic opportunities.