Connecting Innovation and Regional Cooperation for a Circular Western Balkans
Plastic prevention and circular economy in the Western Balkans need more than good strategies — they need practical exchange, tested solutions and strong regional cooperation.
At IFAT Munich, the world’s leading trade fair for environmental technologies, GIZ representatives explored how German and international expertise in waste prevention, recycling, digital solutions and circular business models can inform regional action in the Western Balkans.
For the Western Balkans, these topics are not abstract, as plastic pollution, waste prevention and the shift from linear to circular models require stronger regional coordination, better policies, practical solutions and cooperation across institutions, municipalities, businesses and citizens.
Through the regional project “Green Transition: Circular Economy in the Western Balkans”, implemented by GIZ on behalf of the German Government, we are supporting partners across the region to strengthen circular economy approaches, advance plastic waste prevention and translate regional commitments into concrete action.
The visit to IFAT was an important opportunity to exchange with German and international experts, learn from innovative technologies and business models, and explore how good practices can be adapted to the needs of the Western Balkans.
Germany remains committed to supporting the Western Balkans in moving from strategies and commitments towards implementation — through regional cooperation, expert exchange and practical partnerships.
