Circular Economy Week 2025, under the regional theme “From Local Fixes to Regional Impact,” from 26th of May to 1st of June will bring together a dynamic set of initiatives across the Western Balkans that highlight the power of collaboration, knowledge exchange, and local innovation in building a more sustainable future. Coordinated by the LogEx Community, an initiative led by The Balkan Forum, this year’s edition mobilizes partners from six countries who are engaging the public, businesses, institutions, and youth through diverse and impactful activities.
On 26th to 30th of May, the week begins in North Macedonia, where the organization CIVIL is leading a comprehensive media and policy advocacy campaign centered on the 5Rs of the circular economy: Rethink, Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Their initiative includes the development and publication of five educational articles tailored to the regional context, a series of case studies showcasing sustainable business models, and the drafting of five policy recommendations aimed at embedding circular practices into national and regional development agendas. Complementing these outputs are interviews and mini-reportages that feature regional entrepreneurs, experts, and activists. A virtual event will mark the culmination of these efforts, offering a space for reflection and dialogue. Throughout the campaign, CIVIL will maintain an online media platform to share knowledge and elevate circular economy discourse across the region.
In Tirana, Albania, on May 26 to 27, Build Green Group is equipping vocational students with the skills and knowledge to promote sustainability in tourism and fashion. Through interactive training sessions, students from diverse programs such as travel, fashion design, and textiles are learning how to integrate circular economy principles into their future careers. The training is expected to generate new student-led project ideas and lay the groundwork for replicating the model in other educational institutions.
In Kosovo, from May 27 to 29, Universum International College is transforming its campus into a hub for creativity and community-driven sustainability. Through a Circular Design Exhibition and a Community Swap Fair, students and local partners are coming together to demonstrate practical applications of reuse and sustainable innovation. The initiative is expected to engage more than a hundred participants and feature over twenty student-led projects, emphasizing the role of education in driving behavioral change and environmental responsibility.
Meanwhile, in Jajce, the Center for Education and Research (COD Jajce) is implementing a grassroots project that blends education, entrepreneurship, and media outreach. On 29th to 30th of May, the organization is conducting two workshops for youth focused on clothing repair, upcycling, and bicycle maintenance, followed by the publication of an educational article on the principles of the circular economy. On May 30, the town center will host the Green Economy Promotion Fair, featuring over twenty women entrepreneurs who integrate sustainable principles into their businesses. The fair is complemented by a workshop on sustainable entrepreneurship and dialogue with local government representatives.
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, two initiatives are underway. On May 30, in Sarajevo, CENER21 is organizing a one-day workshop dedicated to the circular transition of small and medium enterprises in high-impact sectors such as construction, metal processing, textiles, and wood. The workshop includes expert presentations, panel discussions with government and academia, and the launch of a Compendium of Best Practices that captures real-world examples of circular economy implementation by local companies.
Montenegro’s contribution comes through Zero Waste Montenegro, which is hosting a three-day capacity-building camp for eco-activists from 30th of May to 1st of June at Camp Cuk in Danilovgrad. The camp focuses on sustainable waste management, spatial justice, and civic engagement. Participants are engaging in group discussions and practical workshops, including a collaborative review of the new State Waste Management Plan. The initiative aims not only to strengthen individual capacities but also to build a stronger advocacy network capable of influencing national policy. Testimonial videos and social media content produced during the camp are being used to extend the project’s reach and visibility.
Circular Economy Week 2025 serves as a unifying platform that connects local initiatives to regional momentum. From policy advocacy and education to entrepreneurship and activism, each partner’s contribution reinforces the collective ambition to transition toward more circular, inclusive, and resilient economies in the Western Balkans. As the week unfolds, the impact of these actions will extend beyond borders, demonstrating that lasting change begins with local leadership and shared regional purpose.
