- info at ecrec.eu
- Make a difference for our planet with ECREC!
End of Content.
End of Content.
Project Objectives
In the face of the ongoing climate crisis, it has become increasingly clear that we need to shift our traditional methods of resource extraction and consumption to more sustainable alternatives.
One such alternative is the circular economy model, a core component of the European Green Deal. Today, we shed light on an ambitious project geared towards actualizing this model in Western Balkans—the YE-2C project.
Redefining Economic Paradigms: The Circular Economy Model
Around half of the total greenhouse gas emissions are a result of resource extraction and processing.
To reach our global climate-neutrality targets, a swift transition to a fully circular economy is not just desirable, but vital.
The circular economy is an innovative economic model that promotes the maintenance of value and resources within the economy for an extended duration, minimizing waste generation. It is a model that has the potential to significantly reduce pressure on our natural resources, while simultaneously stimulating sustainable growth and job creation.
The Western Balkans has seen a steady increase in waste generation over the past years, largely due to economic development and increased consumption, with the current rate standing at around 1000kg/capita. Though this is still lower than the EU average of 1700kg/capita, the region’s alarmingly low recycling rates (below 3% compared to the EU average of 44%) indicate a higher per capita amount of waste that remains unrecycled.
In light of the upcoming single-use plastic legislation and the need to implement modernized EU waste legislation, including recycling and landfill reduction targets, there’s a pressing need for change. And that’s where the YE-2C project comes into play.
The YE-2C Project: Young Minds Creating a Sustainable Future
The YE-2C project aims to empower and engage young people in the Western Balkans in circularity actions, thus transforming cities into circular and more liveable spaces that offer better employment opportunities, cleaner environments, and increased inclusiveness. It is anchored in the horizontal priority of environmental sustainability and approaches the concept of circular cities through the adoption of circular economy principles.
Beyond the core principle of sustainability, the YE-2C project intertwines with the digital dimension, harnessing digital tools to map city circularity. These tools also propose actions for start-up businesses and foster sustainability.
Creating a Decarbonised Economy with YE-2C
With its dual focus on youth empowerment and sustainability, the YE-2C project serves as a crucial pathway to achieving a decarbonised economy in the Western Balkans. It drives home the importance of a circular economy model, not just as an abstract concept, but as a practical tool to build a sustainable, eco-friendly future. By placing the youth at the heart of this transformation, the YE-2C project amplifies the potential for creating a lasting impact.
As we strive to combat climate change and move towards a more sustainable future, the YE-2C project stands as a beacon of hope, propelling the Western Balkans, and by extension the world, towards a more circular, sustainable, and inclusive economy.
