Nordic experts to share experience to suport circular economy advancement in Serbia

The embassies of Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, with the support of the Nordic Council of Ministers, have launched a project called Strengthening the Circular Economy in Serbia – Nordic Experiences.

Through several conferences during September and October in Novi Sad, Kragujevac, Niš and Belgrade, experts from the Nordic countries will present examples of good practice and point out the importance and benefits of the circular economy.

The Nordic embassies aim to support Serbia in implementing the principles of the circular economy, to share the experiences of their countries and raise awareness of local partners about the importance and benefits of circular economy, which affects each individual and the entire society.

First conference will be held in Novi Sad on September 15 (Agenda).

The circular economy brings resource efficiency, reduces pollution, promotes innovation, reduces production costs and creates jobs

Ambassador of Norway to Serbia Jørn Gjelstad said the transition from a linear to a circular economy is vital for achieving a greener future. The circular economy saves resources, reduces pollution, promotes innovation, reduces the cost of production and creates new jobs.

Climate action and the promotion of climate-neutral growth has become the number one political issue in Europe, he explained.

The circular economy is as important for environmental protection as for lowering expenses

As pioneers of sustainable development and the circular economy, the Nordic countries share the European Commission’s vision of a European green deal and a greener, non-toxic and efficient manufacturing. The Nordic countries will be happy to share their best examples and experience with Serbia, Gjelstad said during the project’s presentation.

Ambassador of Finland to Serbia Kimmo Lähdevirta added the circular economy is equally important for the protection of the environment, as well as for lowering expenses.

Waste from one industry can be a raw material for another

Key actors in this area, including the business sector and citizens, need to understand how the circular economy works, in order to be part of the transition, Lähdevirta said, adding industrial waste could be a raw material for another sector.

The partners of the Nordic embassies in the project are: the Nordic Business Alliance (NBA), the National Alliance for Local Economic Development (NALED), the Serbian Chamber of Commerce, the Vojvodina Chamber of Commerce, and the cities of Novi Sad, Kragujevac and Niš.