CETAP Hosts Roundtables to Support BiH’s Transition to a Circular Economy

As part of the Circular Economy Technical Assistance Project in Bosnia and Herzegovina, CETAP hosted a series of roundtable events from 28–30 April 2026 in Banja Luka, Tuzla and Sarajevo, bringing together stakeholders to discuss the policy, planning and engagement mechanisms needed to support the country’s transition from a linear to a circular economy. Across the three events, participants explored how circularity can be enabled through stronger economic instruments, more ambitious waste management planning, and meaningful stakeholder engagement.

The first roundtable, held in Banja Luka at the Chamber of Commerce, focused on Policy and Economic Instrument Enablers to Facilitate Transition to Circularity. The session examined how fiscal and market-based instruments can help make circular choices more economically attractive, including VAT differentiation for repair, reuse and remanufactured goods, Extended Producer Responsibility fee modulation, taxes on virgin raw materials, subsidies for secondary materials, and the role of public procurement in creating demand for circular products.

The second roundtable also took place in Banja Luka at the Chamber of Commerce and focused on the Circular Supply Chain within a Circular Economy. Discussions also explored how EU policy architecture can support circular supply chains while avoiding unnecessary complexity, market distortion or disproportionate burdens on businesses and consumers.

The third roundtable took place in Tuzla and focused on Waste Management Planning. Participants discussed how Waste Management Plans can evolve from disposal-focused compliance documents into strategic tools for resource circulation, prevention, reuse, repair and material value retention. The event explored the need to align local and regional planning with EU circular economy frameworks, while also addressing practical delivery challenges such as infrastructure investment, data systems, separate collection, funding models, EPR revenues, digitalisation, and the role of municipalities in supporting more advanced waste and resource management systems.

The fourth roundtable, held in Sarajevo, addressed Stakeholder Engagement Mechanisms to Facilitate Transition from a Linear to a Circular Economy. The discussions focused on how public authorities, producers, SMEs, citizens, social enterprises and other actors can move beyond traditional consultation towards genuine co-creation of circular economy strategies. Participants examined how to craft successful public awareness campaign for waste management, and how these can support measurable changes in production, consumption, reuse and recycling behaviours.

Across all four roundtables, CETAP created space for professional discussion, keynote presentations and group sessions led by CETAP experts. Participants considered important questions around who should bear the costs of transition, how public authorities can balance ambition with practical delivery, how SMEs and citizens can be meaningfully involved, and which policy tools are most likely to deliver results in the short and medium term.

The roundtables highlighted that the transition to a circular economy requires more than technical waste management improvements alone. It depends on coherent policy, credible economic incentives, strong local planning, reliable data, institutional cooperation and public participation.

By connecting these themes across the three events, CETAP supported stakeholders in identifying practical pathways for strengthening circular economy implementation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and aligning national progress with EU circular economy objectives.

by Cetap

CETAP Training Strengthens Local Capacity for Circular Waste Collection Systems in Bosnia and Herzegovina

As part of the Circular Economy Technical Assistance Project in Bosnia and Herzegovina, CETAP delivered a dedicated training programme on Waste Collection Schemes, Options and Challenges from 4–8 May, bringing together representatives of local authorities, utility companies and relevant stakeholders to support the development of more effective, financially sustainable and circular-oriented waste collection systems.

The training was designed to strengthen practical knowledge around the planning, design and implementation of modern waste collection systems, with a strong focus on local application in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Across the programme, participants explored how municipalities, cantons and utility companies can move beyond traditional waste collection approaches and begin building systems that support waste prevention, separate collection, recycling and long-term circular economy outcomes.

The session opened with “Tools That Change Behaviour: Engagement Mechanisms That Deliver Real Circular Outcomes”, delivered by Scott Crossett, setting the tone for the day by highlighting the role of public engagement, communication and behaviour change in making waste systems work in practice. This was followed by technical sessions led by Harri Moora and Tomas Thernström, who introduced participants to the current waste management situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including collection coverage, separate collection challenges and the expectations linked to EU approximation.

A key theme of the training was that successful waste collection systems cannot rely on one single model. Participants examined the different roles of kerbside collection, communal collection systems and staffed recycling centres, and considered how each approach can be adapted for different waste fractions and target groups, including single houses, multi-family housing, rural areas and businesses. Through interactive discussions, participants mapped existing local practices and reflected on which systems are most appropriate for their own communities.

The training also placed strong emphasis on the importance of planning. Participants explored how waste collection systems need to be integrated into municipal planning processes from the earliest stages, including spatial plans, development decisions and building permits. Using examples from Sweden, the training demonstrated how waste assessments can help ensure that collection systems are properly designed before infrastructure is built, and reinforced the responsibility of municipalities to define the permitted systems and technical standards required for effective implementation.

Practical examples from Sweden and Estonia were used throughout the programme to show how different collection systems can be designed, communicated and financed in real-world settings. These examples helped participants consider how international good practice can be adapted to the Bosnia and Herzegovina context, particularly in relation to residual waste, food waste, packaging waste, bulky waste, hazardous waste, e-waste, textiles and garden waste.

By the end of the training, participants had developed a clearer understanding of how waste collection systems can be planned, financed, communicated and adapted to local needs. The training provided not only technical guidance, but also a practical framework for decision-making, helping stakeholders identify realistic improvements that can support Bosnia and Herzegovina’s transition towards a more circular economy.

Through activities such as this, CETAP continues to support institutions, municipalities, utility companies and other stakeholders in building the knowledge, systems and cooperation needed to improve waste management and align with EU circular economy objectives.

by Cetap

Working Meetings Held in the Central Bosnia and Posavina Cantons

Within the framework of the CETAP project (Technical Assistance for Enhanced Material Recovery from
Waste through Separate Collection, Reuse, and Recycling based on Circular Economy Principles),
working meetings were held in the municipalities of Dobretići, Travnik, and Kiseljak in the Central Bosnia
Canton, as well as in Domaljevac in the Posavina Canton.

The meetings were attended by representatives of municipalities and public utility companies,
appointed to working groups on waste management, with the aim of collecting relevant data on the
current state of waste management systems at local and cantonal levels.

The focus of the meetings was on analysing existing capacities, infrastructure, collection and disposal
systems, as well as identifying key challenges and needs within the waste management sector. The
collected information will serve as a basis for the development of municipal and cantonal waste
management plans, in line with circular economy principles and applicable legal frameworks.

The CETAP project aims to improve waste management systems by strengthening institutional
capacities, enhancing planning processes, and introducing modern solutions in the field of
environmental protection.

These meetings represent an important step towards the preparation of high-quality and
implementable planning documents that will contribute to more efficient and sustainable waste
management across the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

by Cetap

CETAP Delivers Successful Waste Management Workshops across Bosnia and Herzegovina

Within the CETAP project in Bosnia and Herzegovina, successful workshops were held in Banja Luka, Odžak, Travnik, and Sarajevo in the period from 23 to 26 March 2026. The trainings brought together representatives of local authorities, utility companies, and other relevant stakeholders, with the aim of strengthening capacities for circular waste management.

During the workshops, key topics were covered, including strategic waste management planning, the application of economic instruments and financing mechanisms, as well as the importance of waste data collection and analysis for informed decision-making. Special focus was placed on the development of waste management plans and their implementation at the local level.

Lectures were delivered by international experts from the Stockholm Environment Institute, Tomas Thernström and Harri Moora, as well as local CETAP team experts Elma Kavazović and Amela Lepić, specialists in waste management. Participants expressed satisfaction with the organization and content of the workshops, highlighting their practical value and significance for improving local waste management systems.

by Cetap

Thematic Working Groups Workshop Advances Circular Economy in Bosnia and Herzegovina

On 26 February 2026, stakeholders from across Bosnia and Herzegovina gathered at Hotel Hills in Sarajevo for a full-day Thematic Working Groups (TWG) Workshop, focused on accelerating progress toward improved waste management systems and a stronger circular economy framework.

The workshop brought together government representatives, technical experts, financial specialists and communications leaders to review progress, align on priorities, and strengthen coordination across four critical areas: legislation and policy, waste management operations, finance and economics, and education and public awareness.

Setting the Direction

The workshop opened with an introduction from E. Scott Crossett, CETAP Team Leader, who outlined the objectives of the day: to ensure that reform efforts are practical, coordinated, and aligned with European Union standards, while remaining grounded in the specific needs and realities of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Legislation and Policy

The first session focused on legislative alignment and policy development.

Dr. Ion Nae Musetoiu presented the scope of work related to legislative alignment, outlining the process and stakeholder engagement approach required to harmonise domestic legislation with EU environmental acquis. Emphasis was placed on transparency, consultation, and structured implementation pathways.

Simona Mihaela Ghita followed with a presentation on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes — examining current systems and exploring how future reforms can ensure producers take greater responsibility for the lifecycle of products and packaging.

The session concluded with a moderated discussion, allowing participants to raise practical questions about enforcement, institutional coordination, and implementation timelines.

Waste Management Operations

The second session moved from policy to implementation.

Maria Krasteva presented updated Waste Management Guidelines, highlighting the importance of standardised procedures, clear operational benchmarks, and improved coordination between municipalities and service providers.

Mihail Asenov then introduced key components of Waste Management Plans, outlining how strategic planning at local and entity levels can ensure measurable improvements in waste collection, separation, and treatment.

Discussions focused on bridging the gap between planning and execution — ensuring that operational improvements are realistic, funded, and supported by trained personnel.

Finance and Economics

Dr. Paolo Bacca presented on developing bankable projects and feasibility studies, emphasising the importance of preparing investment-ready documentation that meets international financial institution standards.

Tomas Thernstrom then shared findings and recommendations from Sub-Activity 1.1 on economic analysis, highlighting key financial challenges and opportunities within the waste management sector. And showcased best practices and their results from Sweden.

Education and Public Awareness

The final session addressed behavioural changes and stakeholder education.

Scott Crossett presented the Public Awareness Campaign Strategy, outlining a structured approach to influencing habits, increasing recycling participation, and improving waste separation quality. The strategy emphasises clarity of messaging, community engagement, and long-term behaviour change rather than short-term visibility.

A second presentation by E. Scott Crossett detailed the upcoming series of trainings, stakeholder conferences, and roundtables designed to build institutional capacity and ensure that reform is supported by informed and engaged actors at all levels.

Conclusion

The members of the Thematic Working Group play an integral role in CETAP and their time and feedback is greatly appreciated, the team at CETAP would like to once again thank all of our TWG members for dedicating their time to the session and for their valuable input.

by Cetap

Project CETAP Steering Committee Reviews Fourth Quarterly Progress in Brčko

Project CETAP held its fifth Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting on 9 December 2025 at Hotel Jelena in Brčko, marking another key milestone in the project’s delivery. The meeting focused on reviewing progress achieved during the fourth reporting period and agreeing priorities for the coming months ahead.

The meeting was formally opened by Mr E. Scott Crossett, the Project Team Leader, and was attended by members of the CETAP team as well as PSC members and observers, including representatives from EU institutions, state and entity ministries, and the Brčko District.

Review of Progress and Reporting Period Activities

The Steering Committee reviewed the productive progress made during the reporting period 1 September – 30 November 2025, including findings from Results-Oriented Monitoring (ROM), and discussed planned activities for 1 December 2025 – 28 February 2026.

A central item was the Draft Study Report, which provides a comprehensive analysis of policy and regulatory frameworks, market analysis, priority waste streams, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, technological innovation, financial and stakeholder assessments, and opportunities to treat waste as a resource. Practical examples, such as container glass, are included to illustrate market potential.

Legislative Alignment and Compliance Work

Significant progress has been made on legislative alignment with the EU waste acquis. The Project Team has reviewed the Draft Law on Waste Management of the Federation of BiH and prepared targeted recommendations to strengthen alignment with EU requirements.

Compliance Tables have been completed for all relevant administrative bodies under the Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC). Work is ongoing for the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU) 2024/1781 and the WEEE Directive (2012/19/EU), with all remaining compliance work expected to be finalised in the first half of 2026.

Strategic Planning and Local-Level Engagement

A draft content outline has been developed for the Strategic Planning Guideline and Waste Management Plans. As part of this work, workshops with municipalities in Republika Srpska have commenced and work is progressing with 17 exemplar municipalities in total under the programme running through June 2026.

In the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, meetings have been held with selected exemplar cantons, which have submitted formal requests for technical assistance. These cantons are at varying stages of readiness: some require only a review of existing plans, others need updates aligned with planned investments or feasibility studies, while some will require full waste management plans developed from the ground up.

Platforms for Cooperation and Waste Commerce

The Project Steering Committee reviewed progress on the development of both the multi-stakeholder platform and the waste exchange platform.

Meetings have been held with the Chambers of Commerce in the Federation of BiH, Republika Srpska, and Brčko District. While the FBiH and RS chambers already operate suitable digital platforms, the Brčko District chamber will require minor upgrades to meet security standards—support that will be provided by the project. Long-term sustainability was emphasised, with chambers expected to assume responsibility for administration and membership-based financing after project completion.

For the waste exchange platform, both Entity Environment Funds have agreed to host the system within their existing waste information infrastructures, ensuring consistency with EU reporting and data requirements.

Pilot Actions and Public Awareness

During this reporting period, the project delivered three key outputs supporting pilot actions for waste recovery and recycling:

  1. A waste-category screening report
  2. A framework for selecting bankable projects
  3. Project fiches for identified pilot investments

The Project Team is also reviewing data on collected and treated volumes of selected waste streams in close coordination with municipalities and councils. Work continues on EPR schemes and management systems for priority waste streams, including options related to end-of-waste status, glass, and PET.

Progress was also presented on the public awareness campaign, for which the campaign strategy has now been approved. Preparations are underway for launch events scheduled for January 2026.

Mr Crossett closed the meeting by thanking all participants for their continued engagement and constructive contributions. The meeting formally concluded at 15:00.

by Cetap

Delivering Waste Management Plans for Exemplar Cantons and Municipalities

Project CETAP is in the process of providing specific technical assistance to support policy development that will favour a circular economy, by promoting and enabling re-use and recycling.

Alongside this the team are supporting further harmonization of the existing country-wide legislation and once completed this will result in an upgraded legal framework governing the waste management - further aligning local entity legislation with the EU Waste Package.

In addition, the agreed scenarios proposed by the Study on Market Potential for the application of circular economy principles in the management of special categories of waste in BiH should be transferred into the municipal and cantonal plans.

The project team will use all of this information to prepare guidelines for strategic planning in the waste sector for cantons and municipalities, and will also develop municipal and cantonal plans for circular special waste management for a specified group of exemplar local government units.

In November the project team developed draft contents for the guideline on strategic planning. This will be presented within the 4th Progress report dated 30th November 2025. The guideline will be prepared during the second quarter of 2026 and the completion of the guidelines will coincide with the delivery of the second series of trainings and stakeholder capacity building.

Also in November the project team had two induction workshops for the exemplar municipalities in Republika Srpska. The events were held in Banja Luka and Sarajevo and were well attend by the exemplar municipalities.

At the workshops the project team discussed the expected outputs and working modalities with the delegates.

The hope now is to have two sessions a month from January 2026 with another one-to-one session planned with the CETAP waste planning expert team for the Republika Srpska in early December 2025.

In terms of waste management planning activities in the Federation, the project team have made agreements with Sarajavo Canton; Herzegovina Neretva Canton; and are awaiting formal agreement from Central Bosnia Canton and Zenica Doboj Canton on specific work activities in those territories. A work plan for these Cantons and associated municipalities is being submitted with the 4th Progress report dated 30th November 2025.

The CETAP Team would like to thank all of our exemplar municipalities and cantons who have are working with us to enable this transition.

by Cetap

Project CETAP Brings Together Experts for Circular Economy Consultation in Doboj

Project CETAP convened its Thematic Working Groups Consultative Workshop at Hotel Park Doboj on the 22–23 October 2025, bringing together leading experts and institutional representatives to review findings from the Study on the Market Potential for the Application of Circular Economy Principles in the Management of Special Categories of Waste in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This study, prepared under Activity 1.1, assesses opportunities to apply circular-economy principles in managing special waste categories and examines how Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) can align with the EU Waste Package and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans. It identifies the country’s existing strengths and weaknesses while proposing scenarios for reform, innovation, and investment in sustainable waste-management systems.

A Foundation for Change

The report explores:

  • Legislative and policy adaptations required for EU alignment.
  • Scenarios for improving and expanding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes.
  • Models for collection and treatment of waste streams such as batteries, end-of-life vehicles, tyres, waste oil, paper and cardboard, construction and demolition waste, and electrical and electronic equipment.
  • Adaptation of economic instruments, including new taxes, fees, and funding mechanisms.
  • Financing models to support investment in circular-economy infrastructure.
  • Concepts for a national waste-exchange platform, defining institutional roles and digital functionality.

The study provides a roadmap for policymakers and industry to strengthen circular practices across sectors while ensuring compliance with European standards.

Two Days of Collaboration and Insight

Over two days, CETAP experts presented the key findings and engaged in open consultation with members of the Thematic Working Group (TWG) — a body comprising representatives from national and entity ministries, local authorities, the private sector, academia, and international organisations. The TWG includes:

 Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations BiH; Ministry of Spatial Planning, Civil Engineering and Ecology of Republika Srpska;
 Ministry of Environment and Tourism of the Federation of BiH; Brčko District Department for Spatial Planning and Property Affairs;
 Directorate for European Integration BiH; Environmental Funds from both Entities; the World Bank Group; UNDP; BASWA; ALBA Zenica; KIMTEC Eco; ZEOS Eco-system; KJKP “RAD” Sarajevo; the Chambers of Commerce of both Entities; ENOVA; APOSO; Mibral Construction Company; and the Association of Municipalities of Republika Srpska (ALVRS).

Expert Contributions

Day one began with E. Scott Crossett, Team Leader of Project CETAP, introducing the study and outlining the activity objectives. Presentations followed from:

  • Harri Moora, Economic Expert – Policy in Circular Economy Transitioning
  • Dr Ion Nae Musetoiu, Deputy Team Leader – Regulatory Environment in a Transitioning Economy
  • Romano Ruggeri, joining remotely – Role of Regulatory Authorities in the Transition Process
  • Elma Kavazović, Waste Management Expert – Stakeholder Mapping for Transition
  • Draženko Bjelić, Waste Management Expert – Special Categories of Waste and Their Management
  • Maria Krasteva, Waste Management Expert – Moving to Best Practice Models in Waste Management

Each session included structured consultations to gather insights and feedback from the TWG.

Day two featured:

  • Harri Moora – Economic Instruments in Circular Economy Transitioning
  • Mihail Asenov, Waste Economics Expert – Market Trends and Opportunities
  • Simona Ghita, Extended Producer Responsibility Expert – EPR and Special Categories of Waste
  • Scott Crossett, Public Awareness Expert – Public Awareness Strategy as a Tool for Transitioning
  • Dr Paolo Bacca, Waste Financing Expert – Investment Opportunities and Financing Models for Change

The workshop concluded with Mr Crossett presenting CETAP’s strategic roadmap for transition, thanking all participants for their valuable contributions, and reaffirming the collaborative spirit driving Bosnia and Herzegovina’s circular-economy transformation.

Next Steps

Feedback from the two-day consultation has been documented and will inform the final revisions of the Activity 1.1 Report before publication. The outcomes of this collaborative process will serve as a cornerstone for future policy recommendations, pilot actions, and awareness initiatives implemented through Project CETAP.

Project CETAP extends its sincere appreciation to all members of the Thematic Working Group and partners whose expertise and engagement continue to shape a cleaner, more sustainable, and economically resilient Bosnia and Herzegovina.

by Cetap

CETAP’s Second Project Progress Report: Building Momentum

The journey towards a circular economy in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) is well underway. With support from the European Union, the CETAP project continues to drive forward initiatives that strengthen waste management systems, promote reuse and recycling, and build a culture of sustainability. 

Covering the period 15th February – 31st May 2025, the second quarterly progress report highlights major milestones, challenges addressed, and our roadmap for the months ahead.

Key Achievements During the Quarter

1. Launch of Thematic Working Groups

During April we held inaugural meetings of CETAP’s four Thematic Working Groups, each addressing a core pillar of the project:

  • Legal & Policy
  • Technical Solutions
  • Education & Awareness
  • Economics & Markets

These groups bring together diverse stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society. Their role is to shape and guide decision-making, ensuring every perspective is considered as BiH works towards aligning its systems with EU waste and circular economy legislation.

2. Assessment of Market Potential for Circular Economy Transition

A central focus of this quarter was the continual delivery of Activity 1.1 – assessing the market potential for applying circular economy principles to special categories of waste.

Key steps achieved included:

  • Regulatory review: Mapping and translating national legislation to align with the EU Waste Package.
  • Stakeholder mapping: Identifying institutions, businesses, universities, and financial actors relevant to the transition.
  • Producer mapping: Cataloguing producers of special waste categories (such as WEEE, ELVs, batteries, tyres, and construction & demolition waste).
  • Capacity evaluation: Reviewing waste management utilities and companies to understand their readiness to expand recycling and reuse.
  • Economic analysis: Draft reports on financial instruments, investor interest, and EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) schemes. 

The final Study on Market Potential will present scenarios for BiH’s transition, offering policy, financial, and operational pathways to circularity.

3. Capacity Building Foundations

The team prepared an introductory training programme for environmental ministries, municipal authorities, and other key stakeholders. Training modules cover:

  • EU waste and circular economy policy frameworks
  • Benefits and best practices of circular economies
  • Steps required to drive institutional and regulatory change

These sessions were delivered throughout June, and aim to build a shared understanding of the circular transition at all levels of governance.

4. Waste Exchange Platform Preparations

Another milestone was progress on the Waste Exchange Platform—a digital solution designed to connect suppliers of secondary raw materials with industries that can reuse them.

Highlights included:

  • Engagement with the RS and FBiH Environmental Funds.
  • Establishment of a dedicated working group.
  • Drafting of technical criteria for secondary raw materials.
  • Initial discussions on hosting, governance, and quality control mechanisms. 

The platform is envisioned as a cornerstone of a functioning recycling market in BiH, reducing reliance on landfills and illegal dumping.

5. Public Awareness Campaign – First Draft

CETAP’s communication team completed the first draft of a nationwide awareness campaign strategy, scheduled to launch in November 2025.

The campaign will combine digital, broadcast, outdoor, and community actions, highlighting best practices and success stories from across BiH. Its step-by-step approach—shifting citizens from awareness to action—aims to build public ownership of the circular economy agenda.

Communication & Visibility Success

CETAP’s digital presence grew significantly this quarter:

This growing online footprint is an encouraging sign ahead of the nationwide awareness campaign. And we would like to thank everyone who is supporting the project!

Looking Ahead

The next reporting period will focus on:

  • Finalising the Market Potential Study (Activity 1.1) and presenting findings to the Steering Committee.
  • Delivering capacity building training (Activity 1.2) across BiH.
  • Drafting legal acts for EU alignment (Activity 1.3) and supporting municipal/cantonal waste management planning (Activity 1.4).
  • Advancing the Waste Exchange Platform (Activity 2.1) through technical development and stakeholder coordination.
  • Finalising the Public Awareness Campaign Strategy (Activity 3.1) for rollout later this year.

With stakeholder engagement strong and timelines on track, the CETAP project is entering a decisive phase where plans are transformed into action.

Conclusion

The second quarterly report reflects a project gaining real momentum. From regulatory mapping and producer analysis to awareness campaigns and digital engagement, CETAP is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and resource-efficient Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The transition to a circular economy is complex, requiring legal, economic, technical, and cultural shifts. Yet, as this quarter has shown, the foundations are being steadily built—and the country is moving closer to a future where waste is no longer an endpoint but a valuable resource.

by Cetap

Project CETAP’s third Successful Steering Committee Meeting

On 1st July 2025, the CETAP Project Steering Committee gathered in Sarajevo for its third meeting, bringing together representatives from ministries, municipalities, EU Delegation, and project partners to review progress and set the direction for the months ahead.

Driving Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Circular Economy Transition

The session underscored CETAP’s mission to accelerate Bosnia and Herzegovina’s shift from a linear to a circular economy. Discussions focused on the progress of recent activities, including:

  • Introductory workshops in five cities (Bihać, Mostar, Sarajevo, Banja Luka, and Brčko) which engaged more than 130 participants from 90+ organisations. These sessions delivered SWOT analyses, evaluations, and strong momentum for future capacity-building.

  • Upcoming training programmes for public and private sector stakeholders, beginning in September 2025, which will guide municipalities in reviewing and developing waste management plans.

  • Pilot actions to strengthen the secondary raw materials market, including a new platform for trading recyclables.

Strategic Challenges and the Path Forward

Committee members recognised that transitioning to a circular economy requires more than isolated projects. Stronger policy leadership, inter-ministerial cooperation, and alignment with EU standards will be vital.

To support this, CETAP will analyse institutional and practical barriers and outline a strategic roadmap for Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

Building Awareness and Engagement

The project is also advancing communication guidelines to ensure circular economy messages resonate with citizens across all regions. The focus is on creating a unified, relatable message that empowers people to make behavioural changes—supported by the right infrastructure.

Looking Ahead

Key next steps agreed at the meeting include:

  • Finalising and sharing reports on training activities, exemplary municipalities, and baseline assessments in July 2025.

  • Preparing a study visit to an EU Member State to showcase best practices in waste management and recycling.

  • Continuing dialogue with ministries and stakeholders to secure commitment and harmonisation at national level.

A Collective Effort

The meeting closed with recognition of the constructive contributions from all members and a shared commitment to keep driving momentum. CETAP continues to be a platform where institutions, civil society, and international partners collaborate to shape a cleaner, more sustainable future for Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Project CETAP would like to thank all of the Project Steering Committee members for their valued input helping to make the project a success.

by Cetap