Civil Society and Youth for Inclusive and Sustainable Development through Circular Economy in North Macedonia

Waste management in North Macedonia is a pressing concern, with significant environmental and societal challenges. The waste sector stands as the second-largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the country. Recycling rates are dismally low, at just 1%, in stark contrast to the European Union’s average of 44%. More than three-quarters of the population remains unfamiliar with the concept of a circular economy (CE), and merely 15% of businesses believe their models can adapt to this more sustainable approach. The transition to a circular economy model is imperative not only for reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also for aligning with the European Union’s Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, the EU Green Deal, and North Macedonia’s integration into the EU.  Strengthened capacities and resilience of civil society organizations (CSOs) and empowered and engaged youth in advocating and delivering climate responsive initiatives can support North Macedonia in realizing the potential for a circular economy.  

Aims: 

This initiative aims to empower CSOs and youth to play a more active role in North Macedonia’s journey towards a green and sustainable economy, aligning with the European Green Deal. Specifically, the action will focus on (1) enhancing the capacities and resilience of at least 35 CSOs in the field of circular economy, (2) increasing awareness and understanding of circular economy and waste-related issues among the youth while supporting their mobilization, and (3) promoting the integration of circular economy topics into the curriculum of vocational high schools.  

Approach: 

This action will equip CSOs with the means to effectively launch or scale innovative circular economy models, including collaborative initiatives between CSOs, authorities, and the business community. The action will also financially support projects related to waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and upcycling, facilitating behavioural change. Through “learning by doing” approach in youth centers and vocational high schools, the youth centre leaders, youth, teachers, and students will benefit from the capacity building and equipment for implementation of circular economy/waste initiatives and integration of circular economy practices in vocational education.  

Project highlights:  The action targets 12 established CSOs working on CE issues, 23 grassroots CSOs based outside of Skopje, 8 youth centre leaders, 160 youths frequenting Youth Centres, 20 teachers from agricultural and textile-leather vocational high-schools, and at least 400 students from agricultural and textile-leather high schools. The 30-month action will be implemented in all 8th statistical regions in North Macedonia.