Waste: Every Day’s Deal – Last episode of the Transboundary Podcast

In an era where waste has become an everyday issue, the concept of a circular economy emerges as both a necessity and an opportunity. The latest and final episode of the EU4Green Transboundary Podcast, titled Waste – Every Day’s Deal, explores the critical role of circularity in reshaping economic and environmental landscapes. Featuring distinguished experts Dr. Branka Ilakovac from the Food Waste Prevention Centre in Zagreb and Milena Rmuš, a circular economy expert at the Chamber of Economy of Montenegro, the discussion delves into the transition from a linear to a circular economy, the policy frameworks driving this change, and the role of businesses and individuals in this transformative process.

The Urgent Need for Circularity

The traditional “take, make, waste” economic model is reaching a breaking point. As Dr. Ilakovac explains, the linear economy aggravates the triple crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, all while increasing resource scarcity. Rmuš reinforces this view, emphasizing the circular economy’s three core principles: eliminating waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems. Transitioning to a circular model, she argues, is crucial to mitigating supply chain vulnerabilities and fostering economic resilience.

The EU Green Deal and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans provide robust frameworks for accelerating circularity. The Green Agenda, as Rmuš highlights, champions eco-design, extended product lifespans, and increased use of secondary raw materials. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a key pillar, compelling producers to manage the lifecycle impact of their goods, including post-consumer waste recovery.

Dr. Ilakovac contextualizes this within the EU Green Deal, which aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 while doubling the circular use of materials. She underscores the economic potential: embracing circular principles could boost EU GDP by 0.5% by 2030 and generate 700,000 new jobs.

For businesses, integrating circular practices is no longer a choice but a strategic imperative. Rmuš outlines how companies can minimize resource use, implement closed-loop production systems, and embrace product-as-a-service models. Digital technologies play a crucial role in enhancing supply chain transparency and optimizing resource use. Meanwhile, Dr. Ilakovac highlights the cost benefits, noting that material expenditures account for up to 40% of EU manufacturers’ budgets—reducing reliance on virgin resources can significantly enhance profitability.

The adoption of circular economy principles varies across industries. According to Dr. Ilakovac, frontrunners include food and beverage, construction, electronics, and fashion. Rmuš points out that in the Western Balkans, manufacturing, e-waste management, electric vehicle production, and sustainable packaging are emerging as high-potential areas. However, she cautions that a successful transition demands coordinated action from policymakers, businesses, and consumers alike.

Ultimately, individuals wield significant influence in driving demand for circular products and sustainable consumption patterns. Rmuš advocates for choosing durable, repairable goods and supporting brands that prioritize circularity. Meanwhile, Dr. Ilakovac stresses the importance of reducing food waste—planning meals, composting, and avoiding unnecessary purchases can dramatically cut environmental impact. The message is clear: small, everyday actions can collectively foster a systemic shift towards sustainability.

As the EU4Green Transboundary Podcast series draws to a close, this episode underscores a fundamental truth: waste is not merely a problem but a symptom of a broader systemic challenge. The transition to a circular economy offers a blueprint for a resilient, sustainable future—one where resources are valued, waste is minimized, and economic growth no longer comes at the expense of the planet. The time to act is now, and the role each of us plays in this transformation is more significant than ever.