The Trashformers competition, delivered in partnership between Europe House and CETAP, has once again demonstrated the power of education in driving meaningful behavioural change. Bringing together schools from across Bosnia and Herzegovina, the initiative challenged students to develop creative, practical solutions focused on reducing waste and promoting circular economy principles within their schools and local communities.
This year’s competition saw an impressive 47 submissions from primary and secondary schools nationwide, reflecting both the growing awareness of environmental issues and the enthusiasm of young people to be part of the solution. Following a rigorous evaluation process, 20 schools were shortlisted for peer voting, culminating in the selection of six outstanding winning teams—three from primary schools and three from secondary schools. Their projects showcased not only creativity, but a clear understanding of how everyday actions can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Celebrating Innovation and Impact
The six winning schools—Druga osnovna škola Brčko, Četvrta osnovna škola Brčko District, Osnovna škola “Dvorovi”, Gimnazija “Meša Selimović” Tuzla, Srednja škola Konjic, and Srednjoškolski centar “Nedžad Ibrišimović” Ilijaš—stood out for their ability to translate circular economy concepts into tangible, community-focused initiatives. From reuse and recycling projects to awareness campaigns and creative redesigns of waste materials, their work highlighted the diversity of approaches to sustainability already emerging across the country.
The award ceremony, hosted at Europe House in Sarajevo, brought together students, teachers, and partners to celebrate these achievements. It was a powerful reminder that when young people are given the platform and encouragement to act, they respond with energy, optimism, and innovation.
Turning Ideas into Experience
As part of their reward, each winning team will take part in an eco-excursion to a nature park within Bosnia and Herzegovina. Designed to extend learning beyond the classroom, these trips will give students the opportunity to connect directly with the natural environment they are working to protect. Each excursion includes transport, refreshments, and guided educational activities, ensuring a meaningful and memorable experience for all participants.
CETAP will fund five of the winning teams, with Europe House supporting one team as well as delivering the overall competition and award ceremony. This collaborative approach reflects a shared commitment to investing in young people as key drivers of long-term change.
Building a Lasting Legacy
Trashformers is more than a competition—it is part of a broader effort to embed circular economy thinking into everyday life across Bosnia and Herzegovina. By engaging students at an early stage, the initiative helps build the awareness, knowledge, and attitudes needed to support a long-term transition towards more sustainable behaviours.
Crucially, the competition also reinforces the importance of partnerships. By working together, CETAP and Europe House have created a platform that not only educates but inspires, ensuring that the impact of the campaign extends well beyond its immediate activities.
As these students take their ideas back into their schools and communities, they become ambassadors for change—proving that the transition to a circular economy starts with the habits we build today.
