The Circular Economy Academy Kicks Off

On December 23, the first module of the Circular Economy Academy was held at Public Room, as part of the project “Civil Society and Youth for Inclusive and Sustainable Development through Circular Economy in North Macedonia.” The event brought together 12 selected civil society organizations, experts, and mentors, who took part in presentations, discussions, and interactive sessions and laid the foundation for future collaboration. 

The academy began with participant registration, an introduction to the program and project goals, followed by an interactive session on the concept of circular economy and its 8R principles. Expert Natasha Daniloska explained the basics of circular economy, emphasizing the importance of transitioning to sustainable models for resource and waste management.

“Circular economy reduces the need for raw materials and minimizes the environmental impact linked to their extraction and processing. Instead of discarding items after use, the circular economy promotes repair, renovation, and reuse. This significantly reduces waste and landfill buildup. When products are reused or refurbished, less energy is required compared to manufacturing new ones. This leads to energy savings and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The circular economy also creates new income streams through services such as renting, sharing, and remanufacturing, diversifying the economy and improving its resilience,” shared Daniloska.

During the module, the organizations presented the ideas for which they were selected to join the academy: 

• Eco Logic introduced “Barrel-cycle” – bicycle parking made from old barrels and used tires.
• Zip Institute presented an initiative for producing grain drinking straws from bio-waste.
• INOMLADI Kumanovo shared the “From Waste to Unique” initiative – creatively using waste from local businesses in Kumanovo.
• Bilkilife showcased their project on reuse of tea waste 
• INOS Association – Prilep presented “Eco-Block for the Future” – construction using recycled plastic.
• SIEC from Skopje introduced the “Fashion Passion Hub” – sustainable fashion from textile waste.
• Agro Leader Krivogashtani presented eco-friendly pencils and crayons made from waste paper.
• CEPROSARD – Skopje introduced their online store for circular products and recycled packaging.
• Center for Sustainable Initiatives Skopje presented an idea for creative use of wooden waste.
• INOVA LAB Bitola introduced “Recycling with Style” – sustainable fashion for everyone.
• Equinox Scout Shtip presented “Compost360.”
• Pink Support Rankovce shared the “Rural Community for All” initiative.

Each idea was assessed using the 8R principles, with a focus on the opportunities and challenges involved. Due to the complexity of the processes, the need for raw materials, intricate supply chains, the green aspects that increase the cost of services and products, and market placement, the first module created space for motivating discussions and idea exchange. Special emphasis was placed on networking and identifying collaboration opportunities with local authorities.

“Circular economy and circular business models are relatively new concepts in our country. However, the Macedonian economy has the potential to shift towards circularity, as recent research indicates. This transformation requires collaboration and hard work from institutions, businesses, and the civil sector. That’s why we are involving experts and mentors from all relevant fields, so that together we can raise awareness of circular businesses and their value for both citizens and the environment,” stated Marjan Icoski, ARNO project coordinator.

With the announcement of the upcoming launch of the first Repair Center in Skopje, ARNO highlighted the importance of repair as a waste prevention measure and a way to reduce consumerism, as well as the collaboration with local municipalities. The center will also feature a concept store where the products of organizations that successfully complete the CE Academy will be available. The session emphasized sales and partnerships, discussing raw materials and potential clients, such as paper collection through primary schools, composting with students, and urban equipment for municipalities made from recycled plastic. At the end of the event, participants proposed recommendations, which will be sent to local authorities as suggestions for potential joint activities. These recommendations include ideas to support innovative initiatives, apply circular principles, and strengthen cooperation between the civil sector, municipalities, and businesses.

The event concluded with informal networking, a cocktail, and a group photo, providing an opportunity for mentors and experts to meet the teams. The Circular Economy Academy will continue with future modules, during which organizations will develop their ideas and capabilities to create sustainable solutions in the form of circular business models.

The project is financially supported by the European Union through the IPA Civil Society Program, with the goal of fostering innovation, strengthening capacities, and mobilizing youth for building a greener future.