Strengthening Circular Economy Insights Across Bosnia and Herzegovina: Highlights from the March 2025 Mission
The EU-funded CETAP project continues to advance Bosnia and Herzegovina’s journey toward a circular economy. As part of this momentum, an expert mission was conducted in March 2025 across several regions, providing invaluable on-the-ground insights into local waste management practices, infrastructure, and stakeholder engagement.
On-the-Ground Engagement Across the Federation and Republika Srpska
Led by international expert Maria Krasteva from Environment Agency Austria, the mission covered key municipalities in both entities, including Canton 10 (Livno), Tuzla, Zenica, Travnik, and Banja Luka. The objective was to assess the current state of waste generation, collection, and treatment—with a focus on special categories such as e-waste, used tyres, batteries, and End-of-Life Vehicles (EoLVs).
Site visits and interviews were conducted with:
- Public Utility Companies (PUCs) in Livno, Tuzla, Travnik, and Zenica
- Private scrap and recycling operators
- Metal reprocessing firms (e.g., Cibos)
- Local environmental authorities
- The Chamber of Commerce of Republika Srpska
- Regional landfill and sorting facilities in Sarajevo
Key Findings
- Varying Levels of Readiness: The mission revealed significant regional differences in capacity and infrastructure for waste collection and recycling. Some cantons have initiated dual collection systems, while others still rely heavily on mixed waste disposal.
- Challenges in Special Waste Categories: Consistent issues were raised around handling of EoLVs, Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), and tyres—largely due to fragmented responsibilities, insufficient enforcement, and lack of data.
- Resource Constraints and Investment Needs: Across both public and private stakeholders, a common concern was the limited financial and technical capacity to implement advanced waste recovery solutions without external support.
- Strong Willingness to Cooperate: Encouragingly, all stakeholders expressed readiness to participate in technical working groups and to align their strategies with CETAP’s goals.
Looking Ahead
The mission outcomes will directly inform the development of the Study on the Market Potential for Circular Economy Application, feeding into the assessment of market potential for circular economy principles. Follow-up actions include:
- Establishment of a dedicated Technical Working Group by the end of April.
- Finalisation of activity plans to support legal harmonisation and local implementation.
- Continued collaboration on waste data collection and planning support for municipal partner.
Collaboration in Action
CETAP’s hands-on approach—combining policy planning with deep community engagement—is already proving instrumental in tailoring solutions to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s unique context. The March mission reinforced the need for integrated action across government levels, industry, and civil society to make the circular economy a functional reality.
To stay updated on future activities and reports, visit www.cetap.ba/en/news.
Project Team Visit to Mostar
Mostar is an important city for the project team as it is host to the only function Environment Fund at Cantonal level in the Federation. Dr Musetoiu and the project team leader travelled to Mostar to meet representatives from the Cantonal Fund. It was an excellent meeting and the project team meet with the following representatives from the Fund: Daniel Brkić, Legal Department and Goran Čevro, Technical Service.
Project Team Visit to Bijeljina
It was a long snowy drive from Sarajevo to Bijeljina but it was a worthwhile journey to have the opportunity to discuss the project and hopefully future collaboration with the Association of Municipalities in Republika Srpska (ALVRS) who offices are in the city of Bijeljina.
It was a pleasure to meet with Mr Branislav Samardžić and Predrag Pajić and to better understand the role of the ALVRS. We look forward to future co-operation with them as they can provide a vital communication link between the project and the Municipal stakeholders.
Before we left Bijeljina we had another meeting at the regional landfill site to meet representatives of the Solid Waste Association of Bonia & Hertzegovina (BASWA).
Successful Kick-off Meeting of the Thematic Working Group on Law and Policies within the CETAP Project
On 30 April 2025, the online kick-off meeting of the Thematic Working Group on Law and Policies was successfully held within the CETAP project – “Technical Assistance for Improved Utilization of Materials from Waste through Separate Collection, Reuse and Recycling Based on the Principles of Circular Economy.”
The meeting gathered legal professionals, representatives of institutions at various levels of government, civil society organizations, the academic community, and international partners. The focus of the meeting was to exchange views on the challenges and priorities related to aligning the legal framework in Bosnia and Herzegovina with the principles of circular economy.
Participants were introduced to the CETAP project, its structure, objectives, and its expected contribution to improving the waste management system in the country. The roles and working methods of the Thematic Working Group on Law and Policies were presented, as well as the draft Engagement Plan that will guide future work.
The discussion highlighted key obstacles in the current legal framework, opportunities for improving secondary legislation, and the need for better cross-sectoral coordination. Group members agreed that legal and institutional frameworks are fundamental to successful circular economy implementation and committed to focusing future activities on drafting practical legal recommendations and ensuring enforceability.
In the coming period, the Thematic Working Group on Law and Policies will actively work on finalizing the Engagement Plan, developing proposals for amendments to relevant legislation, and providing legal support to other thematic groups within the CETAP project.
We thank all participants for their engagement and valuable contributions, and we look forward to continuing our joint work on strengthening the legislative foundation for sustainable waste management in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Successful Kick-off Meeting of the Technical Thematic Working Group within the CETAP Project
On 29 April 2025, the online kick-off meeting of the Technical Thematic Working Group was successfully held within the CETAP project – “Technical Assistance for Improved Utilization of Materials from Waste through Separate Collection, Reuse and Recycling Based on the Principles of Circular Economy.”
The meeting was attended by experts in technical waste management, engineering, municipal systems, public utilities, and advisory bodies from across Bosnia and Herzegovina. Through active exchange of opinions and experiences, participants discussed the challenges and opportunities for improving technical solutions in line with the principles of circular economy.
The main objectives of the meeting were to present the structure and goals of the CETAP project, introduce the members of the group, and clarify the role of the Technical Thematic Working Group in the implementation of project activities. The discussion focused on the draft Engagement Plan, with particular attention given to the specific technical tasks, priorities, and tools to be used throughout the group's work.
It was particularly emphasized that technical aspects — including infrastructure for separate waste collection, equipment for sorting and processing, and the development of local operational capacity — represent core elements for a successful transition to a circular economy. Group members highlighted the importance of developing technically feasible and economically sustainable solutions tailored to local conditions and practices in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
In the coming weeks, the Technical Thematic Working Group will continue working on finalizing the Engagement Plan, identifying priority interventions, and supporting the implementation of practical technical solutions on the ground, in close coordination with other thematic groups and the CETAP project team.
We thank all participants for their engagement and contributions and look forward to continuing our collaboration to strengthen the technical foundations for sustainable waste management in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Successful Kick-off Meeting of the Thematic Working Group on Economy and Finance within the CETAP Project
On April 29, 2025, the kick-off online meeting of the Thematic Working Group on Economy and Finance was successfully held within the CETAP project – “Technical Assistance for Improved Utilization of Materials from Waste through Separate Collection, Reuse and Recycling Based on the Principles of Circular Economy.”
The meeting brought together participants from various sectors across Bosnia and Herzegovina, including public institutions, economic and fiscal experts, civil society organizations, and private sector representatives. Through an open and interactive discussion, participants exchanged views and experiences on the economic aspects of circular economy and waste management.
The main objectives of the meeting were to introduce the members of the working group, present the goals and structure of the CETAP project, define the role of the Thematic Working Group on Economy and Finance, and review the draft Engagement Plan. Particular focus was placed on identifying key economic challenges in implementing circular economy principles and setting priorities for future work.
During the discussion, participants emphasized the need for the development of sustainable economic models, fiscal incentives, and market-based mechanisms that would support broader application of separate collection, recycling, and reuse of materials. The group agreed that strengthening the economic rationale is essential for attracting investment and informing policy decisions at all levels of government.
In the coming period, members of the working group will continue working on refining the Engagement Plan, developing economic analyses and proposed measures, and enhancing collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of waste management systems in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
We sincerely thank all participants for their valuable contributions and look forward to continued collaboration in advancing efficient and sustainable economic solutions in the field of circular economy.
Successful Kick-Off Meeting of the Thematic Working Group on Education and Awareness Raising within the CETAP Project
On April 28, 2025, the introductory meeting of the Thematic Working Group on Education and Awareness Raising was successfully held within the CETAP project – "Technical Assistance for Improved Utilization of Materials from Waste through Separate Collection, Reuse and Recycling Based on the Principles of Circular Economy."
The meeting gathered 20 representatives from various multidisciplinary sectors in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including education, environmental protection, local governance, the private sector, and civil society. Through active participation, the attendees contributed to the discussion on the importance of education and awareness raising as key tools for encouraging behavior change related to waste source separation.
The purpose of the meeting was to introduce the group members to one another, present the objectives and structure of the CETAP project, define the role of the Thematic Working Group, and discuss the draft Engagement Plan, including key tasks and priorities for future work.
During the discussion, it was particularly emphasized that low consumer awareness of the need for source separation of waste has been identified as one of the main barriers in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The group members agreed that continuous education and public awareness campaigns are crucial for the successful implementation of circular economy principles.
In the coming period, the members of the Thematic Working Group will actively work on refining the Engagement Plan, developing tools and methods for public communication and education, and strengthening cooperation among all relevant stakeholders.
We thank all participants for their active contribution and look forward to continuing our joint efforts to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable waste management in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
CETAP Team Engages Key Institutions in Advancing Environmental and Waste Management Initiatives
As part of ongoing efforts to enhance collaboration and ensure practical alignment with current policies and needs in the field of environmental protection and waste management, the CETAP team recently conducted a series of institutional visits across Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Meetings were held with representatives of the Environmental Protection Sector of Canton Sarajevo, including Zlata Grabovac and Selma Sokočević, as well as MIBRAL Construction Company, represented by Maja Bralović Smith. The team also engaged with Euro Asfalt, APOSO, and ENOVA, currently leading a UNDP-supported initiative to develop the Federal Waste Management Plan (FPUO).
Additional discussions included visits to Heidelberg Cement Factory, MOFTER (Sanja Grubačić), the Agency for Statistics of B&H (Sevala Korajčević), and representatives from the World Bank Group, namely Esma Kreso and Anrea Muharemović.
Crucial insights were also exchanged with the Cantonal Waste Management Department and Azra Bašić from the Federal Ministry of Environment and Tourism (FMOIT).
These visits aim to strengthen institutional dialogue and gather expert feedback for the upcoming phases of the CETAP project, contributing to the development of efficient, data-driven, and sustainable waste management practices throughout the country.
Management Challenges and Opportunities for the Development of the E-Waste System in FBiH: Preliminary conclusions from the CETAP Project
The meetings held within the CETAP project with key stakeholders in the field of electrical and electronic waste management in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina revealed that, although the system formally exists and operates, its practical implementation faces a range of challenges. In recent years, basic mechanisms for the organized collection and treatment of this type of waste have been developed, primarily through the activities of system operators and cooperation with municipal companies. However, in practice, both technical and institutional capacities remain insufficient for a fully functional and sustainable system.
The lack of adequate infrastructure, especially in smaller municipalities, makes organized collection and treatment of e-waste difficult. Municipal companies often lack the resources and specialized equipment necessary for proper handling of this type of waste. Furthermore, public awareness of the importance of separate collection and proper disposal of electrical and electronic waste remains low, directly affecting the volumes of waste entering the system.
The need to strengthen the institutional framework, particularly in the area of inspection oversight and enforcement of existing legal obligations, was also identified. Although the legislative framework recognizes the importance of e-waste management, its implementation is often inconsistent, and the capacities of institutions to monitor and control the system are limited. Moreover, better defined and more transparent reporting and data exchange mechanisms between all stakeholders would contribute to the more efficient functioning of the system.
The results of the meetings indicate that key components for improving the situation include: investment in collection and treatment infrastructure, empowering local communities and municipal companies, continuous public education and awareness-raising, and strengthening cooperation between the public, private, and civil sectors. Equally important is the need to encourage innovative approaches and the involvement of social enterprises in the e-waste management sector.
The CETAP project recognizes these challenges and directs its activities towards strengthening the system by integrating all relevant actors, fostering dialogue, and creating sustainable models for the management of electrical and electronic waste in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
CETAP Project: Strengthening the Circular Economy in Bosnia and Herzegovina
As part of the CETAP project, key stakeholders across Bosnia and Herzegovina are joining forces to assess the current state of circular economy practices and develop strategic measures for further progress. These meetings aim to create a comprehensive Study that will identify the strengths, challenges, and opportunities in implementing circular economy principles, with a special focus on specific waste categories.
Through a series of meetings and consultations with institutions, companies, and organizations, the CETAP project team is gathering essential insights that will be crucial for developing strategies and plans for the future implementation of circular practices.
Recently, Scott Crossett, the project team leader, and Ion Nae-Musetoiu, the legal expert for the project, visited several key institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina to gather information and open discussions about opportunities for improving the circular economy:
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Bijeljina – BASWA
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Bijeljina – Association of Municipalities and Cities of Republika Srpska
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Mostar – Representative of the Environmental Protection Fund
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Sarajevo – Canton Public Utility Company
These meetings enabled the exchange of experiences and ideas among relevant stakeholders dealing with environmental protection, waste management, and the implementation of green initiatives.
At the same time, Maria Krasteva, an expert on extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes, visited additional locations to engage with key stakeholders in the waste management sector:
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Livno – Canton Public Utility Company
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Tuzla – Canton Waste Management Sector
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Travnik – Canton Public Utility Company
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Ilijaš – CIBOS
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Zenica – Canton Waste Management Sector
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Zenica – Zenica Alba Canton Public Utility Company
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Sarajevo – Canton Public Utility Company
These discussions and consultations play a crucial role in shaping the Study, which will propose concrete actions and scenarios for improving circular economy practices in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The focus is on implementing sustainable practices that can enhance waste management, reduce environmental impact, and promote circular principles across all sectors of society.
The CETAP project is focused on strengthening the circular economy through separate collection, reuse, and recycling of waste, with goals that include achieving a more sustainable approach to waste management across the country.
The CETAP team continues to work on strengthening sustainable solutions and strategies that will shape a greener and more responsible future for Bosnia and Herzegovina. For more information about the project, follow us on our channels and continue to be part of this important process!