CETAP is developing a platform that will bring together circular economy information and professional networking, helping businesses in Bosnia and Herzegovina find practical guidance, exchange knowledge and build partnerships for waste collection, recovery and recycling.

For businesses, putting circular economy principles into practice requires access to reliable information and the right partners. Understanding relevant legislation, identifying collection and recycling services, and finding potential uses for waste materials can all take time.

The EU-funded project CETAP is working with the Chambers of Commerce in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Republika Srpska and Brčko District to develop a resource that will help businesses navigate these challenges.

The planned platform combines two complementary functions: a central source of circular economy information and a professional network where businesses and other stakeholders can connect and collaborate.

Bringing information together

The platform is being developed to make information on the circular economy in Bosnia and Herzegovina easier to find and use.

Its planned resources include relevant laws, regulations, strategies and plans, alongside information on European Union legislation and policy developments. Businesses will also be able to explore circular economy projects, practical guidance, studies and examples of successful approaches from Bosnia and Herzegovina and other countries.

A proposed directory will help users identify companies involved in waste collection, transportation, sorting and recycling. Information on public utility services and waste-management infrastructure will provide further context on the services available in different areas.

Together, these resources aim to help businesses understand their responsibilities, explore available support and identify opportunities to manage materials more effectively.

A professional network for practical cooperation

Alongside the information resources, the platform’s networking features are intended to support ongoing discussion between businesses, public institutions, waste operators and other relevant organisations.

The proposed network will allow approved members to create profiles, join groups, participate in forums, share documents and contact one another directly. These features will provide a space to ask questions, exchange experience and explore potential partnerships.

For example, a business seeking a collection service for a particular waste stream could use the network to identify relevant operators and discuss its requirements. Companies facing similar challenges could exchange practical experience, while organisations exploring recovery or recycling solutions could connect with potential partners.

The aim is to make it easier for knowledge and contacts to lead to practical cooperation.

Supporting solutions for priority waste streams

The platform forms part of CETAP’s work to strengthen cooperation between public and private partners involved in waste collection, recovery and treatment.

This includes supporting solutions for plastic waste, construction and demolition waste, electrical and electronic waste, used tyres and batteries, and used oils. Connecting organisations working across these waste streams can help identify gaps, share experience and support joint initiatives to keep materials in use and reduce waste entering the environment.

Developing the platform with its future users

A Steering Board comprising representatives of the Chambers of Commerce has been established to guide development. An initial design and prototype have been shared for review, and CETAP is compiling and structuring the supporting information.

By bringing information, expertise and professional connections closer together, the platform aims to give businesses practical support to participate in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s transition towards a circular economy.