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.