Significant progress of the CETAP project in the transition to circular economy in Bosnia and Herzegovina
The CETAP project, which aims to support Bosnia and Herzegovina's transition to a circular economy by improving the recovery of materials from waste through separate collection, reuse and recycling, and by placing sustainability at the heart of waste management reforms, has made significant progress. It is funded by the European Union and implemented by the international consultancy firm COWI A/S, the Independent Stockholm Research Institute (SEI) and the German Federal Institute for the Environment (UBA).
In the first quarter, from November 2024 to February 2025, the project made significant progress, focusing on the implementation of Sub-Activity 1.1 - a comprehensive assessment of the market potential for applying circular economy principles to specific waste streams, i.e. categories.
As announced on the CETAP project website, the most important steps include:
Stakeholder mapping and engagement: More than 20 meetings were held with state institutions, municipal companies, recycling operators and EPR coordinators in both entities and the Brčko District. This engagement was crucial to understand the current situation and establish cooperation.
Policy and legislative review: A comprehensive review of relevant waste management legislation in the Federation of BiH, the Republika Srpska and the Brčko District is underway. The information gathered will serve as a basis for future legal reforms in line with the EU waste package and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.
Data collection on specific waste streams: The team mapped producers of specific waste categories (e.g. electrical and electronic waste, tires, oils, construction and demolition waste) and started collecting data on quantities and treatment methods, while sending formal requests to environmental funds for relevant information.
Formation of thematic working groups: Expert-led working groups have been launched to manage activities in the areas of: legislative harmonisation, economic modelling, technical planning and public awareness raising. These groups will start formal meetings in March.
With the foundations laid, CETAP is now moving into the next phase. The plan is to complete the Market Potential Study for the Implementation of the Circular Economy, as well as to initiate capacity building for actors and stakeholders at all levels. The development of new legal frameworks will be initiated and support will be provided for planning at the local, or municipal, level. It will also prepare for the development of a national waste exchange platform, with technical support from experts from Croatia, as well as design a national awareness-raising campaign, with the aim of involving citizens in reuse, recovery and recycling activities.
CETAP is not just a technical assistance project – it is an engine for systemic change. By integrating the principles of the circular economy into the policies, infrastructure and public awareness of the country, Bosnia and Herzegovina is taking a bold step towards a greener and more efficient future.