Plastic Waste in the Circular Economy: Community Solutions

The project "Plastic Waste in the Circular Economy: Community Solutions" is designed to be implemented by NGO “Green is Moldova” in partnership with NGO „Association for Waste Recovery” (e-Circular.org) based on the importance and timeliness of circular approaches (e.g., prevention systems, reuse, alternatives to disposable products) as innovative solutions to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated at national level.

The project which NGO „Green is Moldova” intend to implement represent a strategic step which is required to create a circular economy for plastic. So, as plastic waste management has never been a complex research topic at national level, the project will start with elaboration of the first National Reference Study and an Action Plan to reduce pollution from plastic waste. All the data collected and analyzed through this research will bring together the representatives from central and local authorities, private sector, operators for plastic waste collection and treatment, NGO, citizens and will represent a start point for planned activities.

An important part of national action plan will be the promotion of “Zero Waste” Communities. Through the project we intend to support and work with 3 localities (Straseni, Orhei and Soroca), applying the best methods to organize a responsible waste management with an emphasis on prevention / reuse and disposal of single use plastics, as the only and safest in terms of economics, environment, and social solution in reducing the amount of this waste reaching the landfill. Is important also to reflect the synergy of this project with other 2 projects which are now in the process of implementation by NGO “Green is Moldova” – “Be.CULTOUR” and by AWR – “Informed citizen for a clean river”, which also will serve as a proof for co-financing. For example, Be.CULTOUR is an innovative project in order to create and test sustainable innovations for cultural tourism, using the principles of the circular economy, through collaborative innovation methodologies, delivering best practices in the tourism industry. That is way for each of 3 localities were selected at least one touristic attraction (Strășeni / Căpriana Monastery, Orhei / Orheiul Vechi and Soroca / Soroca Fortress) were will be possible to implement one or several innovative solutions to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated. On the other hand, the project “Informed citizen for a clean river” deliver the necessary knowledge and activities for organizing a community clean-up campaign and to sensitize the community on the need for participation in waste management efforts.