EICEE – Western Balkan Eco Innovation and Circular economy Ecosystem

Overall objective of this project is strengthening capacities and engagement of civil society organizations in policy development leading to green and digital transition in WB region. The primary value of the action is set with a defined impact on the capacities of the social economy actors and the perception of the industry and the public sector on the use of resources in a sustainable way and based on the concept of eco-design.

Sustainable economic development is one of the challenges which the entire social system is facing, not only a challenge for one of the WB countries. The current economic model in the region is still based on “take-make-replace.” It depletes our resources, pollutes our environment, and damages biodiversity and climate. It also makes countries, for majority production, dependent on resources from elsewhere. To address these problems, in the EU have aim to move to a more circular economy model based on more sustainable products. Western Balkan has to follow that route. Addressing the environmental impact of products throughout their life-cycle and extending their lifetime will lead to more sustainable, circular and more resource-efficient products. More sustainable products such as electronics, furniture and textiles will contribute to the resilience of the economy. Through research work, the regional research team will develop a set of recommendations as response to identified challenges

Highlights: The beneficiaries of this project are: research community in the Western Balkans, which received additional findings and services for applying research work in the development of innovative products and the economy in general; Social economy enterprises who will further use the developed project services and outcomes; and Community representatives, citizens ’association and all interested in gaining support and using green technology, knowledge and services for the development of eco innovation and 3R products.