Efficient management of resources and reduction of waste are the main principles on which the green (circular) economy is based on. One of the main goals, as an economic model, which would replace the linear economy, is restoration of ecosystems and introduction of innovations that will influence a change in the behavior of society.
And while the linear economy comes down to profit by using natural resources, (especially non-renewable ones) based on the principle of taking, using and throwing away (creating waste, which further negatively impacts the environment), the green economy strives towards a sustainable way of action, management of resources that are limited and selection, recycling and waste management. Of course, the most important thing in the entire production process is creating minimum waste.
Focusing on energy efficiency and ecological sustainability, which are applicable in all aspects of life, is the foundation of the new way of social behavior. In this way, humanity seeks to once again establish the lost relationship with nature, as well as to restore faith in the possibility of further prosperity.
In order for the circular economy to function, all stakeholders must participate, as it is expected for it too to be profitable, almost like the linear economy model. At the same time, the role of the industry, consumers, but also political actors are equally important.
The European Commission (2017) translated the need of introducing the circular economy model into a document called “Manifesto for a Resource-Efficient Europe”, in which it is clearly stressed that “In a world with growing pressures on natural resources and environment, the European Union has no choice but to go for the transition to a resource-efficient and ultimately regenerative circular economy model”.
The European Commission adopted the new Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP) in March. It is one of the main segments of the European Green Deal, the new European Agenda for Sustainable Development. EU’s transition to a green economy will reduce the pressure on natural resources and will create sustainable growth and jobs. It is also a precondition for achieving EU’s goal of climate neutrality by 2050 and bring to a standstill the loss of biological diversity.
The new action plan has the goal to prevent the flow of waste and to redirect it towards sustainable development and consumption by increasing the life cycle of products.
North Macedonia doesn’t have a strategy for a green economy, but has laws that deal with the environment, waste management, as well as an energy strategy focused on green energy according to European regulations and as part of the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.
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The content is part of the large regional initiative to mark the Western Balkans Circular Economy Week (27-31 May, 2024) under the motto “Sustainable Bridge: Unite, Uplift, Upcycle”, which is implemented by the LogEx regional network, where CIVIL is a member, at the initiative of the reputable think-tank organization Balkan Forum from Kosovo, and with the support of Rockefeller Brothers Fund of the United States.
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